Barnstaple man set to complete 30 marathons in 30 days for ChemoHero

A Barnstaple man is set to complete an incredible challenge tomorrow, running 30 marathons in 30 days at the Tarka Leisure Centre to raise money for the local charity ChemoHero.

Garry Sussex has been running a marathon every day throughout April and will finish his remarkable feat on April 30. 

The funds raised will support ChemoHero, a charity that provides chemotherapy patients with boxes full of useful and luxury items at North Devon Hospital.

Speaking about Garry’s commitment, Sarah Crocker, the mother of ChemoHero founder Lisa Wallis, said: “ChemoHero are so proud of Garry for taking on this challenge. His effort will help us continue the legacy Lisa left behind."

ChemoHero, which has been sending 'boxes of kindness' to patients at the Seymour Unit in Barnstaple, was founded by Lisa Wallis after her own breast cancer diagnosis.

Lisa wanted to ensure that no one would feel as lonely or scared as she did during her first chemotherapy treatment. Each box is filled with essential items and a few luxury items to help make treatment a little kinder.

Sarah explained: "Garry is an unassuming, modest man who has taken on most of this challenge solo. His grit and determination remind us all of the strength that people find when faced with a cancer diagnosis, and how many face it alone. His fundraising will help someone feel less alone."

Despite not having professional support, Garry has been running on the treadmill at the leisure centre each day, often without assistance.

“He compared himself to Eddie Izzard today, saying if Eddie can do it, so can he!" Sarah explained. "Eddie probably had medical support and lots of celebrity coverage, but Garry is doing this on his own, day after day.”

Garry, a friend of Lisa and her parents, Neil and Sarah Crocker, wanted to support the charity as he used to run with the trio. 

This challenge is something Garry had planned to take on two years ago, but an injury delayed his efforts until now.

Tomorrow, April 30, Garry will run his final marathon at Tarka Leisure Centre, starting at 10.30am. 

After a short break, he will finish the challenge later in the day at 6.15pm, when he will run alongside a friend. 

Sarah is hoping for a strong show of support, with others coming to cheer Garry on as he tackles his final stretch.