AN APPLETON man has walked two marathons in just two months whilst in lockdown, all to raise money for the Warrington Food Bank and national blood cancer charity Leukaemia Care.

John Price was diagnosed with a form of blood cancer known as chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) 18 years ago. Since then, he has done his bit to support other leukaemia patients, but wanted to go one step further whilst shielding in his home.

John said: “To keep fit during shielding, I walked a marathon in April and my neighbours contributed a car boot full of food to Warrington Food Bank.

“I walked one mile a day for 26 days, taking my weight from 97 kilos to 85 kilos. I felt being fitter would help me fight the virus and make me feel better in myself.

“In May, I realised the charity that has helped me live happily with leukaemia for 18 years had missed out on funds raised in events like the London Marathon, so I offered to walk a marathon for Leukaemia Care. So, I began my daily walk around the garden each afternoon, listening to my favourite singer James Taylor.”

As a result of his marathon, John has raised more than £150 for those affected by blood cancer, thanks to the generosity of his friends and neighbours.

John added: “Over the last 18 years, Warrington Hospital have been marvellous, and Leukaemia Care have always been there when I needed help. Two years ago, I phoned them up and asked if I could help and soon after became a phone buddy and I now have two lovely buddies who I regularly speak to and give each other mutual support. I was also invited to become a patient advocate and attend meetings (now on Zoom) discussing the work of the charity. I find it very rewarding.”

Claire Merritt, community fundraising officer at Leukaemia Care, said, “We are so grateful to John, not just for taking on this challenge, but for all he has done to support the charity and others affected by blood cancer. Without people like John, we would not be able to continue with our vital work supporting patients and their loved ones.”

If you would like to donate to John’s challenge, you can do so on the Leukaemia Care website, citing ‘John’s Walk’ as the reference.