Two men from Beccles take on two marathons in one day to raise money for young girl with cancer
12-year-old Chantelle has been undergoing intensive chemotherapy in New Zealand
Last updated 12th Jul 2024
Two men from Suffolk are completing two marathons in 12 hours to fundraise for a young girl with cancer.
45-year-old James , from Bury St Edmunds lived in New Zealand for twenty years where he met the mum and dad of 12-year-old Chantelle.
After returning back to Suffolk, he received the devastating news that Chantelle had been diagnosed with a rare form of cancer.
Chantelle has since been undergoing intensive chemotherapy over in Christchurch.
However, her family live on the other side of the South Island of New Zealand meaning Chantelle's Mum, has given up her job as a nurse to be there for her daughter, which is putting a strain on the family's income.
James and his friend Dale have now taken on the challenge of two marathons in ONE day to raise money for Chantelle and her family to help ease the pressure.
James told us it's something he's passionate about after losing his father to cancer nine years ago: " When I heard, like any father would, like any decent human being would, I just couldn't contain it."
"There were lots of tears, it's horrible to hear that a 12-year-old could be going through something like that."
"Despite Dale not knowing Chantelle or her family, he quickly agreed without hesitation, having children makes it much more personal."
What do Chantelle's family think about it all?
James and Dale tell us they have stayed in touch with the family throughout the training throughout the whole process, and the family have been so touched by their hard work
James said: "They're really emotional about the whole thing... they are the nicest family, with the most beautiful little girls."
How have James and Dale prepared?
In preparation of running 52.4 miles today, the pair have been going out bright and early in the morning to go for a run as well as visiting the gym to prepare for the challenge
Their challenge started at 5 am this morning (12th July 2024) at the Gillingham, Swan and they are hoping to finish at the same place by 5 pm with a windy route along the way, finishing "with a nice cold beer waiting" for them at the end.
The pair have researched how to fuel themselves during their marathons and will have friends and family on standby to deliver water and other goods they may need along the way