RunThrough, the UK’s largest and Europe’s fastest-growing running events company, has released an inspiring mini documentary about the inspiring story of Mike Barnes, 72, a runner who has raised over £25,000 for The Christie Charity after losing his daughter Laura to bowel cancer.
The video, available to watch now on RunThrough’s YouTube Channel here shares Mike’s deeply personal journey of turning grief into purpose through running. From Laura’s diagnosis to his Pride of Britain Regional Fundraiser nomination, Mike’s story is a testament to the power of running.
In the mini documentary, captured at Mike’s home with supporting footage from Mike taking part at RunThrough’s regular Tatton Park events, Mike opens up about how running became a way to cope with the immense loss he felt after Laura’s passing at the age of 36. “You’re not just running for yourself; you’re running for a reason,” Mike says. “It’s the encouragement of others that keeps you going, especially when they see you’re running for The Christie.” This emotional narrative reflects the transformative role of running not only for physical health but also for emotional healing.
Running for The Christie Charity, Mike has found solace and purpose, with the support of the community motivating him through each race. As Mike continues to run and fundraise, his impact grows, with over £25,000 raised to date, directly contributing to life-saving cancer research.
Matt Wood, Co-Founder of RunThrough, said: “Mike is a true inspiration! To have people like Mike in our RunThrough community is at the core of why we started RunThrough in the first place, to give people the regular platform to be able to move, both for themselves and for incredible fundraising campaigns such as Mike’s. We wish him the best of luck for the Pride of Britain awards and can’t wait to see Mike back at our events soon.”
The Christie Charity supports the work of The Christie hospital providing enhanced cancer services over and above what the NHS funds. This includes money for care and treatment, research, education and extra patient services..
Josh Hughff, mass participation events officer at The Christie Charity, says: “Mike is an amazing person and his drive and dedication to The Christie cause are unmatched. We are incredibly grateful for his determination and support. His unwavering commitment to make a difference to cancer patients and their families is truly inspiring.”
Watch the full video on RunThrough’s YouTube Channel here.
Anyone wishing to donate to Mike’s cause, his fundraising page is linked here. If you feel inspired to fundraise for any cause close to your heart you can create a fundraising page for your chosen charity with our Official Fundraising Platform givestar.
RunThrough will organise and deliver over 270 events in 2024, with 285,000 participants, including the Run Aintree 5k, 10k and Half Marathon, the Tatton Park 5k and 10k and the Haltemprice 10k.
