Jonathan's fundraiser for 2wish 

Jonathan will be running his first marathon in twenty-three years, the Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon in memory of his son and to raise funds for a charity very close to his heart, 2wish. 

"In 2019 my 21-year-old son took his own life. He had been suffering with his mental health but when trying to access help from the NHS they had significantly failed him despite attending A&E on numerous occasions."

"My daughter and I found my son that night and have subsequently both been diagnosed with severe PTSD." 

"Following the passing of my son, we never received any support and were left to our own devices not knowing who to turn to. At this point, 2wish reached out and from that point, they have helped us immensely."

"I have always been a keen runner, running half marathons regularly over the years, however, the last marathon I ran was 23 years ago. 

"I have chosen to run the Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon for several reasons. 

"Firstly, it's in memory of my son.

"Secondly, I am running to raise funds and awareness for 2wish, as at present their costs are in the region of £700K per year. 

"2wish is a family that no one wants to be part of however, we would never be without them." 

The charity was set up by Rhian Mannings in 2012 after she tragically lost her baby son, George, and husband Paul within the same week. 

George was 1 year, 1 week, and 1 day old and died after suffering a seizure at home. It was discovered later that George was suffering from Bronchial Pneumonia and Type A Influenza. Paul tragically died 5 days later, he was 33 years old.

2wish was created in their memory and to support other parents who have suddenly suffered bereavement.

"Any donation made will make such a difference to so many families."

Good luck Jonathan, we can't wait to cheer you on at the finish line!

To support Jonathan's fundraising mission click here 

To find out more about 2wish click here 

Entries are still open for the Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon. Click here to sign up and find out more.