Henry’s London Marathon story: Running in memory of 4-year-old son Douglas

Henry Wright from Ely is putting himself through his paces to train for his first ever London Marathon in memory of his 4-year-old son Douglas, who died from cancer in February last year. Henry will be raising money for CLIC Sargent, a charity that is close to his heart as they supported his family every step of the way following Douglas’s shock cancer diagnosis.

Henry, 51, said: “It’s going to be a really big challenge for me as it’s my first marathon, but I’m really pleased to be running for CLIC Sargent who helped Douglas and our family during the most difficult time.

“I wanted to do something tough, not just for Douglas but also to help with my own physical and mental well-being which has taken a beating over the past few years. Even if I’m one of the last to finish, I’ll be spurred on by thinking about what Douglas went through and this will get me over the finish line. It’s all mind over matter and I will get there.”

Douglas, 3 at the time, was a ‘happy and normal little boy’ before he started to complain of having a sore tummy and found it difficult to walk.

Henry said: “Douglas became quieter and wanted to be pushed around in the buggy as he found walking uncomfortable. It soon became clear that this was more than an upset tummy.  We thought maybe he had a hernia or perhaps appendicitis.”

Henry and his wife Jane took Douglas to the doctors, who sent them to their nearest A&E at Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge. Douglas quickly received an ultrasound as his stomach was enlarged, and the next day the paediatric oncologist told the family that Douglas had cancer.

Douglas said “It was a huge shock. You never think of children getting cancer, particularly your own child”

During this difficult  time, Douglas and his family were supported by both a CLIC Sargent Nurse and a CLIC Sargent social worker, who provided emotional, practical and financial support.

Henry said: “Our CLIC Sargent nurse acted as our interface between consultants and us- she was lovely, straight-talking and honest; she could always translate medical jargon in a way we could understand.

“We also had our CLIC Sargent social worker- when we were first admitted she came around with a purple bag which had all the essentials we needed. At a time when everything was such a shock it was really useful to have. She also told us what we entitled to financially and helped us fill in forms – it was really important to get her advice. CLIC Sargent was the glue that held us together and they were SO important.”

After a year of different treatments, Douglas’ cancer returned in February 2018 and he was referred to Great Ormond Street Hospital for a final trial, which sadly didn’t work and the family were told that there were no further treatment options available. Douglas spent his remaining time at home, where he passed away surrounded by the people who loved him on 15^th February 2018.

Since signing up to the marathon, Henry has been training hard and running 18-20 miles during weekends, whilst also recently completing the Cambridge half-marathon in preparation.

Jade Clarke, Major Runs Project Manager at CLIC Sargent, said: “We rely entirely on donations to fund our vital work and so we can’t thank Henry enough for their incredible efforts and in Henry’s memory.

“Training for a marathon is a huge commitment. From all the lie-ins Henry has sacrificed to get out of bed and run to every blister they’ve encountered – we are so appreciative of their hard work and determination. We’ll be there on the day cheering Henry all the way to the finish line!”

To sponsor Henry’s London Marathon effort go to https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/HJWright

GET IN TOUCH!

CLIC Sargent is the UK’s leading cancer charity for children and young people, and their families.

To find out more about how we help young people cope with the impact of cancer, please visit our what we do section. If you need support yourself please contact us using our online enquiry form or call 0300 330 0803. 

For more information, please contact Martha Taylor-Rowe on 02087522812 or email Martha.taylor-rowe@younglivesvscancer.org.uk

About cancer in children and young people

Today, 11 more children and young people in the UK will hear the devastating news that they have cancer. Treatment normally starts immediately, is often given many miles from home and can last for up to three years. Although survival rates are over 80%, cancer remains the single largest cause of death from disease in children and young people in the UK.

About CLIC Sargent

When cancer strikes young lives CLIC Sargent helps families limit the damage cancer causes beyond their health. CLIC Sargent is the UK’s leading charity for young cancer patients and their families. We provide specialist support, to help and guide each young cancer patient and their family. We will fight tirelessly for them, individually, locally and nationally. For more information, visit www.clicsargent.org.uk

Note to sub editors

Please note that the name ‘CLIC Sargent’ should not be abbreviated to CLIC, and that the word ‘CLIC’ should always appear in capitals, as above.