Kirklees Father and Daughter Set for London Marathon to Support Lymphoma Action
A father and daughter from Kirklees are preparing to run the London Marathon to raise crucial funds for Lymphoma Action, a leading UK charity dedicated to supporting individuals affected by lymphoma. Robert Knapp and Laura Hall are undertaking this challenge in honor of Bev, who is Robert's wife and Laura's mother, after she was diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma, a type of blood cancer, in 2024.
Family Inspiration Behind the Run
Following a successful course of chemotherapy, Bev is now in remission, but the experience has deeply motivated her family. Laura expressed the emotional impact, stating, "It was a devastating shock for our family when mum was diagnosed. Our world was turned upside down, and the months that followed were filled with fear and uncertainty." She added, "Thankfully, she is now doing well, although she will continue to have regular check-ups."
The marathon, scheduled for Sunday, April 26, represents a significant personal goal for the pair. Laura explained, "Running a marathon together has been a bucket list dream for my Dad and I for years. Soon, that dream becomes a reality as we line up together to run 26.2 miles through the streets of London!"
Milestone Challenge for a Worthy Cause
This event marks a special milestone for both runners. Robert, who will be turning 65 this year, is attempting his first marathon in 24 years, having last completed the London Marathon in 2002. Meanwhile, Laura is celebrating her 40th birthday, making the challenge a dual celebration. "I am also celebrating my 40th birthday this year, making this a milestone challenge for us both!" she noted.
Their dedication extends beyond personal achievement, as they aim to support Lymphoma Action's mission. Laura emphasized, "We are proud to be running for Lymphoma Action, who provide invaluable support and information. Their work ensures no one has to face lymphoma alone, a mission that is now deeply personal to us."
Charity Support and Broader Impact
Laura Thompson, challenge events fundraiser at Lymphoma Action, expressed gratitude for their efforts, saying, "We are so grateful to Robert and Laura for their support and are so pleased to hear that Bev is doing so well following her treatment. We can't wait to cheer them on from the sidelines on race day!"
She highlighted the importance of their fundraising, noting, "Every year, more than 18,000 people in the UK are told they have lymphoma, making it the most common type of blood cancer. With this year marking our 40th anniversary, we're more determined than ever to transform the experience of people affected by lymphoma."
Thompson added, "Thanks to the support of amazing people like Robert and Laura, we can make sure that people can navigate a lymphoma diagnosis with the information, support, and community they need so that no one faces lymphoma alone."
The duo is training rigorously for the event, with Laura stating, "Together, we'll be training hard, supporting each other, and running with purpose—for mum, for our family, and for every person affected by lymphoma."
This inspiring story underscores the power of community and charity in overcoming health challenges, bringing hope to many across the region.
