For many people, committing to run one half marathon is a big challenge. For Deb and her wife Alex, one wasn’t enough, they decided to take on 12 half marathons in 12 months throughout 2026 to raise money for The Christie Charity.

Over the last four to five years, Alex’s mum and stepdad, as well as Deb’s dad and brother, have all been diagnosed with cancer. “We’re really lucky, as all of them are still with us today. That’s because of the quality and speed of the treatment they received at The Christie.” Deb explained.

Wanting to give back and raise awareness of The Christie’s life-saving work, the pair decided to take on a challenge of their own. After a few beers at the pub one day, they found themselves committing to completing 12 half marathons throughout 2026.

Training through the hard days

Balancing training alongside their busy lives hasn’t always been easy.

Deb said “We’re both busy at work and have had a lot going on, so fitting in training runs and mentally getting ourselves out there has definitely been the hardest part. But a couple of hours out running is nothing compared to what people going through cancer treatment face every day.”

That mindset has helped them keep going, taking each race one at a time.

Running for the people who have supported their family

For Deb and Alex, the challenge is a way to support not only their own family, but the many others who rely on The Christie.

“The most surprising thing has been realising just how many people we know who have been affected by cancer, either themselves or through family and friends, and have received treatment at The Christie.”

ASICS Manchester Half feels extra special

The ASICS Manchester Half Marathon will be Deb and Alex’s ninth event of the challenge and it will also be their home race. Originally from Manchester, Deb was determined to include the event as part of their challenge.

“We’re so excited for Manchester. We’ve done a few runs between us over the years, but Manchester is by far our favourite because the atmosphere is fantastic.” The pair are also looking forward to joining the huge group of Christie runners taking on the streets of Manchester.

More than just a running challenge

Reflecting on the incredible support they’ve already received, Deb added: “The more runs we do, the more people are following the journey and asking which race we’ve done and where we’re going next. It’s amazing to see people getting behind it.”

Their challenge will continue beyond race days, with the pair also planning a special fundraising run in August, running approximately 16 miles from The Christie in Withington to The Christie in Macclesfield.

“For families affected by cancer, just knowing there are people out there who understand what they’re going through and are prepared to support the work The Christie does is really important,” said Deb.

“And if it inspires anyone else to get up and start their own challenge to raise funds, that would just be amazing.”

You can support Deb and Alex’s challenge by visiting their fundraising page here. You can also join Team Christie at ASICS Manchester Half and take on your own fundraising challenge while supporting vital cancer care for people and families across the region. Find out more and sign up here.