We’re incredibly proud to share that James Tilley, Senior Recruitment Consultant at Jonathan Lee Recruitment, has secured a charity place to run the iconic London Marathon in 2026. But this isn’t just any marathon story – James is running in honour of a cause that changed his family’s life forever.
A Personal Mission
In December 2024, James and his wife Stacey received news that initially filled them with joy – they were expecting their third child. However, their happiness quickly turned into fear and uncertainty when complications arose.
After an ultrasound revealed no baby and further tests showed alarmingly high hCG levels, Stacey was rushed into emergency care. Just moments before surgery, a consultant at Charing Cross Hospital advised a CT scan. The results were devastating: Stacey had cancer.
She was diagnosed with Gestational Trophoblastic Disease (GTD), a rare pregnancy-related cancer. The disease had already spread to her lungs, and treatment needed to begin immediately. Stacey underwent nearly five months of aggressive chemotherapy – alternating between Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham and Charing Cross Hospital in London.
The Road to Recovery
Through sheer strength and the incredible support of the doctors and nurses at Charing Cross, Stacey’s treatment was successful. Her hCG levels dropped, and by May 2025, tests confirmed the cancer had gone. Today, Stacey continues to be monitored, and her family remains hopeful as she rebuilds her life.
Running for a Cause
Now, James is giving back. He’s pledged to raise £5,000 for the Cancer Treatment and Research Trust (CTRT), the charity that helped fund the vital research and treatment which saved his wife’s life.
“I’m running to raise awareness of this devastating disease and to give something back, in the hope that more people can be helped, just like Stacey was,” said James.
You can support James by donating, sharing his story, or simply cheering him on as he embarks on this emotional and inspiring journey toward the 2026 London Marathon.
How to Support
Visit James’ fundraising page here: https://2026tcslondonmarathon.enthuse.com/pf/james-tilley-london2026-ctrt
Every donation, like, and share helps raise awareness of GTD and supports the ongoing research that continues to save lives.
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