When Robert embarked on his first marathon, he hated running. But he did it to raise money for charity, and to prove to people he could go the distance.
He was first introduced to Mark Thornberry in 2017 at the Thames Path race (TP100), a 100-mile continuous trail race along the Thames Path from London to Oxford.
Known affectionately as ‘Thorners’ to his many friends and supporters, the two men bonded over their passion for running and fundraising. Unbeknownst to Robert at the time, Mark had been diagnosed with cancer of the liver and told he had only a few months to live.
He defied the odds and, over the next three years, Mark went on to raise over £100,000 for King’s College Hospital Charity. Sadly, he passed away in 2020.
Inspired by his friend's legacy, Robert decided to continue in Mark's footsteps and raise more money for liver cancer research.
"I want to save and extend the lives of those suffering from liver cancer. It is under-researched and this has to change," says Robert.
Robert has set himself the goal of completing twelve gruelling ultramarathons over a twelve month period.
His fundraising efforts will help to ensure our Institute of Liver Studies continues their research of liver cancer and in the future, can hopefully develop more targeted and effective treatments for patients.
"No doubt that running in the steps of the great Thorners gives me an extra boost, as does seeing kind donations come in," says Rob.
