BBC presenter Sara Cox moved viewers to tears during a heartfelt segment on BBC Children in Need, as she opened up about a devastating family loss that inspired an incredible charity challenge.
An Emotional On-Air Moment
During the behind-the-scenes episode aired on Wednesday, 19th November, the 50-year-old broadcaster became visibly emotional. She spoke about the profound impact of her brother David's sudden death in 2019, an event she said 'completely destroyed' her family.
David Cox was 56 years old when he died just weeks before Christmas. His passing was attributed to an undiagnosed underlying heart condition. Sara described her brother as a 'proper athlete' who had run countless Ironman competitions, making his sudden death even more shocking for the family.
A Record-Breaking Tribute
Driven by her brother's memory, Sara Cox undertook a monumental challenge the previous week, on Friday, 14th November. She ran an astonishing 135 miles across the country, effectively completing five marathons in just five days.
This extraordinary feat of endurance was not just a personal tribute. It generated an overwhelming public response, raising more than £7.6 million for the annual Children in Need appeal.
Dedication Beyond Family
While Sara's run was primarily dedicated to her brother David, she revealed a second, deeply personal motivation partway through her challenge. She stated that her efforts were also for 'all the children who walk funny or have wonky legs and get picked on like I did in school.'
The televised scenes highlighted the immense physical and emotional challenge Sara faced. Her heartfelt confession provided a raw glimpse into the personal heartbreak that fuelled her remarkable achievement for a national cause.
