The race will mark the halfway point in Val Aguilar’s effort to complete the original World Marathon Majors – a challenge in memory of her best friend who lost her life to brain cancer at just 18 years old.
The TCS London Marathon marks the third of Val’s six races, placing her midway through the series which also includes Tokyo, Boston, Berlin, Chicago, and New York.
In London, Val will be running for World Cancer Research Fund – a charity that examines how diet, nutrition, weight and physical activity affect risk of developing and surviving cancer
Val met Mary Katherine in the first year of high school where they formed a friendship that would last a lifetime.
“With her, everything felt like an adventure. Even the simplest or the silliest of things felt like the coolest thing to be doing,” Val shared.
Just four years later, in March 2009, Mary Katherine was diagnosed with an aggressive brain tumour. Despite doctors’ best efforts to save her life, she survived just 14 months after her diagnosis.
“Having such a special meaning behind my miles after losing a best friend to cancer makes each run a little bit easier, and each race experience a little bit sweeter,” Val explained.
Through years of training, international travel and physical challenges, Val is fundraising to support organisations committed to understanding, preventing, and treating cancer.
“When I’m racing, I think about who Mary Katherine would be now almost half our lives later. It makes me feel close to someone who I can no longer grow closer to,” she shared.
Val’s London Marathon bid for World Cancer Research Fund highlights the importance of evidence-based prevention strategies and global collaboration to reduce cancer risk.
World Cancer Research Fund’s UK Director, Steve Greenberg, commented:
“We are incredibly grateful to Val for her determination and dedication to supporting cancer research. Her efforts not only raise vital funds but also inspire others to take action in the fight against cancer. By completing the world’s most iconic marathons, Val has transformed her grief into action, proving that one person’s determination can help drive change.
Val hopes her story will encourage others to fundraise for cancer research, live healthier lives, and spark vital conversations about the importance of prevention.
You can show Val your support by donating or sharing her story below:
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Nicole Latini is running the TCS London Marathon this April after training in her native US – raising vital awareness and funds for World Cancer Research Fund on both sides of the Atlantic.
Her London Marathon bid began in 2022 after her dad, Alan Latini, died following a three-year battle with bowel cancer.
Following her dad’s diagnosis, Nicole became committed to transforming her health by losing over five stone (70lbs), running three half marathons, and ‘completely changing’ her diet and lifestyle to help reduce her own cancer risk.
Despite endless rounds of treatment including immunotherapy, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery and clinical trials, Nicole’s dad faced his cancer with what she described as “gratitude and grace” before sadly passing away on 4 February 2022.
“Anyone who knew my father knew him as charismatic, witty, caring, loving, and someone who would do anything for his family. I miss my dad more with every passing day. Every milestone, holiday, and birthday is a reminder that he’s not here with us and should be.” Nicole added.
Nicole began running one week after her father’s death to cope with her grief, and soon set her sights on the 26.2-mile route to stop other families facing the same heartbreak.
“Running quickly became an instrumental part in coping, even though I was awful at it. Over time, I made it my goal to use my running through grief to give hope to others in honour of my dad,” she shared.
Reflecting on the challenge ahead, Nicole commented:
“Everyday, we have a choice to show up for our family, community and society. My dad showed up every single day for all of us. I’m choosing to train and show up everyday, even when I don’t want to, for him, for all those facing cancer, and for everyone experiencing grief.”
Running the London Marathon holds a special meaning for Nicole. She studied to become a vet in the city, often returning to the US for the holidays and staying close to her dad through regular video calls. He was determined to see her graduate, but heartbreakingly never made it to London.
World Cancer Research Fund’s UK Director, Steve Greenberg, added:
“We are in awe of Nicole’s commitment to improving outcomes for others in her father’s memory. Channelling her grief in a way that will offer hope to future generations is so selfless, and every step Nicole takes this April will make our vital work possible. We cannot wait to cheer her on and congratulate her at the finish line.”
You can show Nicole your support by donating or sharing her story at the link below:
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Scott Molumby will run three marathons over three months in memory of his best friend, Dan Logan-Thomas, who sadly died in December 2025 after living with cancer for eight months.
Scott’s challenge began with double ultra marathon along the Tarka Trail in his home of North Devon – which starts in Ilfracombe and finishes in Dartmoor National Park on 28 February 2026.
Just four weeks later, on 28 March, Scott will run an ultra marathon across the snowcapped mountains of Snowdonia in his Native Wales. The route will begin on the north coast at Conwy and will see him head up and down sixteen of the highest mountains in the range – all of which are over 3,000 feet high.
Finally, Scott’s challenge will conclude with the iconic 26.2-mile TCS London Marathon on 26th April, marking 58 relentless days for World Cancer Research Fund in Dan’s memory.
After meeting at Swansea University, Scott and Dan struck up a close friendship which spanned multiple continents – with the pair living together in Wales, Australia, and New Zealand.
“Dan was such a happy-go-lucky guy.” Scott said. “He made his own luck because he was so positive, right until the very end.”
Over the last five years, Dan lived with multiple brain tumours which were non-cancerous (benign), undergoing multiple surgeries and radiotherapy while continuing to live a full and adventurous life. However, after losing feeling down his left side in April 2025, scans showed a new, large tumour.
Following major surgery, Dan received the devastating news it was cancerous, and began intensive chemotherapy which he faced with the same quiet courage that defined him:
“Dan wasn’t afraid of dying, he was more upset about how it would affect everyone else. That’s just the kind of person he was,” Scott shared.
Reflecting on the challenge ahead, which was once part of the plans they made together, Scott added:
“Dan helped me decide on the runs, and I always assumed he would join me at the finish line to celebrate. Now, I’m determined to complete this challenge in his memory and give it my all. It gives me an opportunity to remember a great friend in my own way with a lot of hard work, determination, and dedication.”
World Cancer Research Fund’s UK Director, Steve Greenberg, commented:
Taking on three marathons in three months shows Scott’s extraordinary strength and courage, and running in memory of his best friend is a reminder of the love and loyalty that shapes the best of us. His determination is raising funds to fuel our research that helps saves lives, continuing Dan’s proud legacy. We are deeply moved and profoundly grateful for Scott’s commitment to cancer prevention research.
For Scott, this challenge is about honouring the way Dan lived. He hopes that Dan’s story will inspire others to grab life with both hands.
“Don’t hang around if there’s something you want to do or something you need to say,” Scott said. Do it while you can, while you have the chance.”
You can show your Scott your support by donating or sharing his story below:
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“I was 19 years old when my Mum was diagnosed with bowel cancer. We were told it was terminal and she had up to 6 months to live. But after 6 days, she closed her eyes and never opened them again.
“There are certain milestones a parent should see with their child, way beyond their first steps. First home, finding love, children of their own. There are special days families should be together, my wedding day being one of those. My Mum should have been there. Every parent should be there.”
Mum Julia is not the only person James has lost to bowel cancer. A few years earlier, his Nan died of the disease, and his Mum’s sister Mary also tragically succumbed to bowel cancer – the 3rd most common cancer in the UK.
Doctors discovered that a genetic disorder called Lynch syndrome runs in James’ family. Since the death of 3 of the most important women in his life, James and his brother are regularly tested to try to ensure the disease doesn’t take any more of his family.
James has completed some epic events to raise money for World Cancer Research Fund, including 2 marathons and many shorter races. He often fundraises and competes with his friend Carl Villiers, fondly known as the Twiglet because of his slender build. Cancer research is also a cause close to Carl’s heart, as he has a mutated gene linked to cancer and also benefits from regular screening.
Determined to make a difference
James Radford at one of World Cancer Research Fund’s supporter events.
Yet sadly, it’s not just bowel cancer that has struck in James’ family. Another of James’ aunts, Helen, and his Step-Mum, Lyn, died from different cancers. The devastating impact on his family hasn’t just made James sad – it’s made him angry and determined to make a difference.
“To all those who knew Helen, she was the light in the room. She always had something to say. She passed away quietly and pain free in Milton Keynes Hospital, with family close by holding her hand.
“Then when Lyn died, watching one of the strongest people I have had the pleasure of meeting losing her battle with cancer made me angry. Cancer doesn’t care who you are or how strong you are. It’s an evil disease.
“I’m often asked, how do you keep motivated to fundraise for World Cancer Research Fund? Honestly, it’s simple. I think of the people I’ve lost to cancer and all that it’s robbed me of.
“I wouldn’t wish this on anyone, so if raising money can maybe one day stop others being robbed of memories, I won’t give up.”
John Steventon is our very own supporter superhero. He completed a HYROX in December dressed as comic book character Wolverine, alongside a friend who dressed as Deadpool – and he isn’t stopping there.
HYROX is an indoor fitness race enhanced by workout stations along the route, so competitors run 1km, then do a workout – 8 times! The workouts include rowing, pulling and pushing a sled, and lunges while carrying a sandbag, making it an exhausting but fun challenge.
John said: “Everything I’ve done in life, I’ve wanted to share with others. As a DJ, I taught aspiring musicians and even wrote DJing for Dummies. In my TV career, I mentor new editors. When I was racing in indoor rowing, I launched the RowAlong YouTube channel to help home rowers stay motivated. So, when I started competing in HYROX, I wondered how I could use this platform to make a difference. “
“I knew I’d never be a podium finisher, but after my skin cancer diagnosis, I found a purpose: racing as Wolverine to raise money for World Cancer Research Fund. The response from the HYROX community has been incredible – not just in donations, but in the conversations I’ve had. Nearly everyone I meet has been touched by cancer in some way, whether personally or through friends and family.”
‘I thought I was invincible’
“Even though the doctor said, “Don’t worry”, when I heard the words “That’s skin cancer” the last hope that I was indestructible fizzled away. I’d always thought I was invincible – after all, I like to dress up as Wolverine – but skin cancer reminded me that none of us are.”
John’s diagnosis helped him become more aware of the importance of cancer prevention. “I remember being 7 years old, resisting my Mum’s attempts to put sun cream on me. I often opted for the lowest SPF possible, thinking sunburn was just a fast track to a tan. Coming from Scotland, where sunshine is a rarity, I’ve always craved the sun’s warmth. But now, I never go without factor 30 or 50. If only I had learned that lesson earlier.
“The guidance from the World Cancer Research Fund has been invaluable in helping me understand the importance of proper nutrition and lifestyle choices in cancer prevention and overall health. Exercise alone isn’t enough – we need to fuel ourselves properly and protect ourselves from preventable risks like excessive sun exposure.”
John continues to take on HYROX challenges to raise money for us. He’s completed 3, including one in Frankfurt, and is running The Grid competition again in September, as well as more HYROX events this year. So far, he’s raised nearly £2,000 towards cancer prevention – thank you, John!
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The UK’s National Day of Reflection takes place on 9 March 2025, as an opportunity to come together to remember those who died as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, and to honour the tireless work and acts of kindness shown during this unprecedented time.
World Cancer Research Fund are proud to be involved in this day and extend it into an opportunity to remember all of those we love who have died. We know many of our fantastic supporters welcome our innovative and groundbreaking work in memory of someone special.
Remembering Mary Towsey
Mary’s family kindly shared this tribute to her, as a supporter of World Cancer Research Fund.
Born in Epsom on 24 July 1936 to Freda and Norman Prideaux, Mary grew up in a loving household with her younger sisters, Jane and Jill. After the war, they all settled into what was to become a bustling, lively, family home in Hampshire filled with grandparents, friends, dogs, cats, geese, heifers, chickens and, most importantly, love and laughter.
Her favourite expression was “Find a way, make a way”. She could make something from nothing, whether an impromptu meal or a beautiful and cosy room in her house. She often saw beauty where others didn’t, and had a gift for showing others the world through her eyes.
Mary started her own very successful art school in Cobham, Surrey, where she would share her skill and knowledge with many aspiring artists. As was so typical of her, she often said she learned as much from her students as they did from her.
When she finally retired from teaching and moved to a smaller house, Mary continued to paint, having made a small studio in her attic, and she continued to socialise with her many friends. Still being full of energy and wanting to do more, she started going to a Pilates class for the more mature woman. There she met a lovely group of women with whom she spent most of her time laughing.
In her quiet moments, Mary would enjoy sitting in her conservatory, drinking coffee while watching the birds feast from the bird table. Mary was an active person, filled with energy who kept gardening and painting until the end of her life.
World Cancer Research Fund is humbled to receive gifts in memory of special people, like Mary.
We have a tailored in memory programme where we supply forget me not seeds in the spring, and memorial baubles at Christmas, as well as online ways to share your loved one’s life. Visit Give in memory for more information.
Would you like to share your loved one’s story? We’d love to hear from you. Please telephone our in memory team on 020 7343 4293 or e-mail tributes@wcrf.org.
Siobhan McGeown
Siobhan was inspired to run by her parents (in main picture), who have both had cancer. She says: “After watching both my parents suffer from cancer (ovarian and prostate), as well as several other close family members, I want nothing more than to see better outcomes for cancer diagnoses, as well as better detection and testing before it gets to that stage.”
Angela Brooks (left, wearing cap)
Angela was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2021 aged only 33. She’s currently in remission but still living with the impact of cancer, including early menopause. Angela told us about her training schedule: “Every 3 weeks, between rounds of chemotherapy, I set myself the goal of completing a 10k run.”
Sam Burton
Sam says: “The decision to run for World Cancer Research Fund is driven by my Father’s recent diagnosis with kidney cancer, an event that has reshaped my perspective on life and illuminated the critical importance of cancer research and advocacy.”
Jack Gibbons and family
Jack Gibbons
This is Jack’s second marathon for us, having also run in 2018. He’s running in memory of his mum, Maggie, who received a diagnosis of very aggressive stage IV melanoma in late 2023 and passed away in January 2024.
Maggie was there to support Jack when he ran his first marathon and was there at the finish line of the London Landmarks half in 2023 to see him over the line. Her support meant the world to Jack and he’s proud to be able to run for her in 2025 and raise money for World Cancer Research Fund.
David Herlihy
David sadly lost his Dad to cancer in April 2024, and his Mum has been diagnosed with cancer for the second time in 5 years. He’s dedicated to health and fitness, and has completed 5 marathons, an ironman and 2 ultra marathons.
Hannah Stedman
Hannah is running in memory of her amazing Mum, who “had a very quick battle with lung cancer in October 2023. She was diagnosed on the 3rd and had passed by the 24th. To say this experience was the hardest thing of my life is an understatement.”
George White
George is a mortgage broker based in the West Midlands and is motivated to run for us after recently losing his Godfather to cancer.
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Missing someone special is always difficult, but the “hype” we hear as others plan ahead for Christmas can make 25 December even more difficult for those of us who are missing loved ones who have died and who we would have spent this special day with.
Every bereavement is unique, as is every person, so there’s no magic formula for how best to deal with bereavement. We could feel a mix of emotions – sadness, anger, guilt or even moments of joy when we think back to happier times when we enjoyed the time of year with the person, or people, we now miss.
At World Cancer Research Fund, we have a memorial bauble, which we supply primarily to our supporters but can give to anyone who is remembering someone special this Christmas. We understand many of our supporters are bereaved, and that Christmas can be a difficult time of the year, and one where the loss of someone loved is felt very strongly.
Remember that healing takes time, and the first holiday season is often the hardest. Be patient and gentle with yourself. If you’re really struggling, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a grief counsellor or mental health professional for additional support, or visit one of the helpful websites listed below.
Love that turns to grief
We’ll never forget those who have been a part of our lives who have died, but while grief doesn’t diminish, over time, our world instead gradually grows larger around it. A bit like a river that doesn’t narrow but carves new channels and finds new paths to go forward while still carrying those deeper waters.
It’s nice to have memories of people who brought you joy in previous Christmasses, even if tinged with sadness that they’re no longer here.
It’s OK to be sad at their absence, but it’s also important to try to embrace the spirit of the season they would want for you.
You don’t have to feel guilty if you do find moments of joy, and you don’t have to apologise to yourself or others if, in a quiet moment of reflection, you are sad.
When we love someone and they die, that love turns to grief. Sharing memories of them, speaking about them, and perhaps using one of our memorial baubles, allows us to keep their memory alive and remember those we love as we take our own journey through life.
“Be happy that we met, not sad that I am gone” is a sentiment used much in bereavement and captures the essence of what enduring love means. It’s like they’ve left you one final gift of wisdom: to treasure the blessing of having had them in your life at all.
- We encourage people in need of extra support to contact Cruse Bereavement Support on 0808 808 1677 or Mind on 0300 123 3393.
The Cure has designed 2 limited-edition guitars to raise funds for World Cancer Research Fund. The 2 guitars have been built by Schecter Guitars and the artwork is by Bunny Lake Designs.
Frontman Robert Smith will be donating $250 (£191) from each sale, with Schecter Guitars matching his contribution. This will bring donations to $500 (£383) per guitar. There are only 75 available in total and they are available to order here.
Supporting our work is important to the band members, especially after Roger O’Donnell, The Cure’s guitarist, was diagnosed with blood cancer. He has since been urging others to look out for signs and get tested.
Sarah-Jane Hill, Fundraising Partnerships Manager at World Cancer Research Fund, said: “We’re delighted and incredibly grateful that Robert Smith and The Cure have chosen World Cancer Research Fund to benefit from the sale of these iconic guitars. The funds raised from these stunning instruments will support our prevention and survival work, and help people to live longer, healthier lives – free from the devastating effects of cancer.”
The funds raised from these stunning instruments will support our prevention and survival work
To celebrate our relationship with The Cure, we designed a spicy sandwich for them during Cancer Prevention Action Week last year – they taste just like heaven! To erase those “blue Mondays ” and “grey Tuesdays”, our pitta surprise is perfect for fans of the legendary English alternative rock band – and best of all it helps reduce your cancer risk, too.