A man from Ipswich is preparing to take on the iconic London Marathon inspired by his father’s cancer journey and the care he received.
George Chilvers is set to run the London Marathon this month to raise funds for Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity.
The 26.2‑mile challenge is being taken on in recognition of the care his family has received from hospital teams.
George, who comes from a well‑known farming family in the area, is raising money to support services that have helped his father during treatment.
His dad has been living with stage four lung cancer and has faced the diagnosis with determination and resilience.
George said seeing his father’s outlook has been a powerful motivation and has brought their family and wider community closer together.
He said: “Right from the very start Dad made it clear he wasn’t dying of cancer, he was living with cancer, and that’s exactly what he has done.
“Watching my dad go through cancer has been incredibly tough, but also inspiring.
“The care he’s received has meant so much to all of us as a family.
“Doing the London Marathon feels like a way to give something back and support others going through similar experiences.”
Despite picking up an injury during training, George is determined to complete the marathon, and will be running in a costume inspired by Elsa from Frozen.
George said the outfit adds a light‑hearted twist to a challenge that is deeply personal.
He has been supported throughout his training by his parents, Ian and Alyson Chilvers, as well as family and friends.
Sandra Gosney, fundraising manager at the charity, said: “George’s story is a powerful reminder of how cancer impacts not just individuals, but entire families and communities.
“It’s incredibly inspiring to see him turn that experience into something so positive by taking on the London Marathon in support of the teams who have cared for his dad.”
Donations can be made by visiting https://www.justgiving.com/page/george-chilvers-12.
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