A pregnant woman and her husband from Alton are putting themselves through their paces to run the TCS London Marathon this April to raise vital funds for children and young people with cancer.

Hana and Tom Rhodes will be taking on the iconic 26 miles and 385 yards course in London on April 27 with their bump to raise money for Young Lives vs Cancer, a cancer charity for children and young people.

Hana, 37, said: “It is said that the later stages of pregnancy can be like running a marathon anyway, and so that’s exactly what I’m training for. I know how lucky I am to have my health and that of my family and friends, but have seen how cancer can turn people’s lives upside down.

“I want to raise money to help Young Lives vs Cancer be there to support everyone who needs it and I’d love the local community to get behind my 26.2-mile marathon mission and sponsor me. 

“It’s a really big challenge - for which I’ve had medical clearance - but I’m so proud to be doing what I can to help children and young people living with cancer. I’ve seen the real difference the charity makes and thinking of that will get me across the finish line, even at 30 weeks or seven months pregnant.”

Every day, 12 more children and young people in the UK will hear the devastating news that they have cancer.

From the moment of diagnosis, Young Lives vs Cancer specialist social workers provide psychosocial support to children and young people with cancer and their families, throughout treatment. The charity also provides accommodation close to hospitals, where families can stay together during treatment for free.

Liz Blunt, the Hampshire senior fundraising engagement manager for Young Lives vs Cancer, said: “We cannot thank Hana and Tom enough for their amazing efforts, taking on the challenge of a lifetime for Young Lives vs Cancer. For every blister they have encountered, and all the running and training through baby kicks, we are in awe of their dedication and determination.

“From the moment of diagnosis, our specialist social workers provide day-to-day support for each child, young person and family, from guidance to financial support.

“Our charity relies on donations to fund our vital work, and so we’d love to see the community get behind a final push for Hana and Tom’s fundraising. We cannot wait to cheer on Family Rhodes and Team Young Lives all the way to the finish line.” 

To sponsor the Rhodes family, visit https://www.justgiving.com/page/bumpy-rhodes-ahead

For more information about Young Lives vs Cancer’s work, visit www.younglivesvscancer.org.uk