Miles of Meaning: Six Runners Lace Up for Cynthia Spencer Hospice at the London Marathon

It’s not just about the miles. It’s about the memories, the love, and the legacy.

This Sunday, as the iconic streets of London fill with cheering crowds and pounding feet, six incredible individuals will be running not just for the finish line—but for something far deeper. They’re taking on the 2025 London Marathon to raise vital funds for Cynthia Spencer Hospice—and so far, they’ve already pulled in over £12,000 (and counting).

But behind every step they’ll take on 27 April is a story that matters.

Aasha’s Tribute, 25 Years in the Making

For Aasha Marenghi, this year’s marathon holds an aching poignancy—it marks a quarter-century since she lost her mum, who spent her final days under the compassionate care of Cynthia Spencer Hospice.

“They didn’t just look after my mum,” Aasha shares. “They wrapped our whole family in care during the hardest time of our lives.”

She set out to raise £1,750 in her mum’s honour. She’s already soared past £2,100—with time (and heart) to spare.

Claire’s Golden Bond

Claire Dixon is no stranger to fundraising. Her mother passed away at the hospice on New Year’s Eve, 2010, and since then, Claire and her family have become passionate champions of the charity that helped them through. This year, Claire’s efforts have been recognised with a coveted Golden Bond place—a spot reserved for standout fundraisers.

She’ll be running with her mum in her heart, every step of the way.

Harry, Thomas & a Race for Gratitude

Thomas Johnson is lacing up with one clear goal: to raise £1,750 for the hospice that’s helping so many.

Running alongside him is Harry Sturley, whose dad was cared for at Cynthia Spencer following a prostate cancer diagnosis.

“They went above and beyond,” Harry recalls. “From making dad comfortable to letting mum stay over with him—they treated us like family.”

It’s this kind of care—quiet, selfless, deeply human—that Harry’s running to honour.

Running for Curtis: Krissi’s Mission

Krissi Charles is pounding the pavement in memory of Curtis Felix—a father figure, mentor, and a fighter until the very end. Curtis lost his battle with cancer last December, but his spirit, especially in Northampton’s boxing circles, lives on.

“He taught me that strength and heart define who you are,” says Krissi. “Cynthia Spencer gave him peace and dignity. Now I want to give something back.”

His words are a powerful reminder: end-of-life care isn’t just about medicine—it’s about making someone feel truly seen, even at the end.

Dr Bhav: A Doctor Who Runs the Extra Mile

And then there’s Dr Bhavyang Acharya—or as his patients lovingly call him, Dr Bhav. A palliative care consultant at Cynthia Spencer for 15 years, Dr Bhav is known for doing far more than his job description demands. Whether it’s visiting patients at home, popping into care homes, or organising unforgettable moments for those nearing the end of life—he’s the embodiment of going the extra mile.

Running the marathon? Just another way he’s proving his dedication.

The Bigger Picture

“These runners are truly incredible,” says Michelle Morris, Community and Events Fundraiser Lead at the hospice. “The London Marathon is no small feat—and we’re so grateful they’re doing it for us.”

Want to cheer them on in the best way possible? A small donation can make a massive difference. Seriously—even a fiver helps bring expert care, comfort, and compassion to people when they need it most.

💛 Show your support: Donate here

Because when you back someone running for Cynthia Spencer, you’re not just fuelling a marathon effort—you’re helping someone else’s story end with grace, dignity, and love.