Cure Leukaemia boss set to ‘Run the Nations’ one final time

Cure Leukaemia chief executive James McLaughlin is lacing up his running shoes one more time – as he prepares to take on 270 miles in 14 days during Blood Cancer Awareness Month in September.

James will be taking part in his final Run The Nations challenge over a 14-day period with no rest days.

It is the equivalent of more than 10 marathons – and he will visit 29 blood cancer centres across the UK where Cure Leukaemia supports clinical trial networks.

James will begin and end his challenge with a 27-mile run – serving as a reminder that every 27 seconds, somebody across the world is diagnosed with blood cancer.

Cure Leukaemia is the chosen charity of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce president Nasir Awan, who is urging the business community to get behind the challenge.

Sponsorship packages are available from £2,500.

James will be running 15 miles through Birmingham on Thursday 11 September and individuals are invited to join him for the full distance or part of the route.

Nasir said: “Once again, I urge the business community to rally behind James and support the vital funding of the specialist nurses whose expertise is transforming outcomes and offering hope to blood cancer patients across the UK.

“I wish James every success as he carries this Birmingham-headquartered charity’s message nationwide through such an extraordinary challenge.”

James said: “Run The Nations is about pushing boundaries – not just mine, but those of what we can achieve together.

“I’m calling on Birmingham businesses to rally behind this challenge and help raise vital funds for Cure Leukaemia.

“Every step I take is for the patients here in our city, at the QE and Birmingham Children’s Hospital.

“With your support, we can give hope, accelerate treatments, and change lives right here in Birmingham.”

If running isn’t for you, there is an opportunity to get involved through Move The Nations - Cure Leukaemia’s campaign encouraging people to get moving through walking, cycling or by setting their own challenge to raise vital funds for blood cancer patients.

Find out more information about Run The Nations and Move The Nations.

Pictured: James (third from right) with fellow runners during last year’s challenge