Leukaemia is cancer of the blood. It's not hereditary. You can't catch it. However, more children are developing leukaemia than ever before and sadly, despite the ongoing advances in treatment, it is Britain's most common childhood cancer.
In February 1987, leukaemia killed 14-year-old Paul O’Gorman. Not only did the O’Gorman family have to face that tragedy but, just nine months later, their daughter Jean died, also of cancer.
Paul’s parents had promised him to help other children with leukaemia. It was a promise they were able to keep with the support of Diana, Princess of Wales who, deeply moved by this double tragedy, personally helped start this charity in January 1988.
A caring boy who never gave up hope, Paul’s spirit continues to inspire the work of CHILDREN with LEUKAEMIA. It has become the leading charity dedicated exclusively to the conquest of childhood leukaemia through pioneering research, new treatments and providing support to leukaemic children and their families.
Forty years ago, leukaemia was a virtual death sentence. Nowadays, four out of five children survive although, alarmingly, childhood leukaemia is on the increase.
It is in no small part thanks to the generous support of our runners that we are able to raise funds in our fight to save young lives. We are thrilled that our Mr Men and Little Miss Team had over 100 runners at the BUPA Great South Run 2007 with every runner being a star in our eyes and deserving of our deepest gratitude. The motivation and determination required for preparation and training, with runners pounding the streets in often wet and cold conditions, is awe-inspiring while all hard work and determination put in to fundraising has meant that millions have already been put to good use in our fight to save young lives.
Please help take our vital work forward and save every young life that would otherwise be lost forever.
If you would like one of our places, or you have your own place for 2008, and would like to raise vital funds to fight childhood leukaemia, all you need to do is contact Caroline or Ben on 020 7404 0808. Alternatively, click below to email them.
Whatever help you need, Caroline and Ben will always be available. In fact, as a member of the Mr Men and Little Miss Team, you will receive all the support you would expect as part of a major team – literally, from start to finish. You can even email our friends at realbuzz.com for truly personal training and fitness advice.
We’d love to hear from you and to help make your BUPA Great South Run 2008 an unforgettable experience!
