Ben’s marathon effort for cancer patients

An Ashford teacher will swap the classroom for cardio when he takes on a marathon to raise money for cancer patients.

Ben Randell will take part in the Brighton Marathon on Sunday, 12 April, raising money for East Kent Hospitals Charity for the Celia Blakey Unit at the William Harvey Hospital in Ashford.

He is raising money in honour of his grandmother, who received life-saving treatment for cancer at the unit.

Ben, 32, who works at Wyvern School, took up running last summer and has progressed from struggling to run 2km to completing two half marathons.

He said: “Taking on the full marathon is about much more than just the miles for me. Seeing the care my grannie received showed me how important the work they do is for so many families. If running 26.2 miles can help give something back to the people who helped save her life, then every mile will be worth it.

“The incredible team on the Celia Blakey Unit have been amazing. Their speed, care, and unwavering support made what is a tough journey feel a little more manageable.

“I’m running for strength. I’m running for hope. I’m running to honour every person who’s sat in a chemo chair, held a loved one’s hand, or waited for news with their heart in their throat.”

The dad of two has been training around his work and family commitments, and his family and friends will cheer him on along the route.

Last year, East Kent Hospitals Charity committed £147,000 to cancer services across the Trust, funding specialist equipment such as cooling caps used during chemotherapy to reduce hair loss.

Cancer services remain a major focus for the charity this year as it looks to increase its support even further, with every donation helping to improve facilities and support patients facing the life-changing reality of a cancer diagnosis.

You can add to Ben’s sponsorship at https://2026brightonmarathonweekend.enthuse.com/pf/ben-randell