Liam takes on half-marathon challenge in memory of aunt

A young man from Tameside is preparing for a demanding 13-mile charity challenge in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support, driven by a deeply personal loss that shaped his decision to take on the event.

Liam Sheridan, 17, said the run is inspired by the death of his aunt from cancer in 2021, and he hopes the effort will raise both funds and awareness for people affected by the disease.

The half-marathon-style challenge is set to take place on 6th June, a date Liam said carries special meaning for his family. He plans to run from the canal in Ashton to Manchester and back again, covering the full 13 miles in one continuous effort.

Liam said the idea for the fundraiser came from a desire to turn grief into something positive. He explained that although he was younger when his aunt died, the experience stayed with him and encouraged him to do something practical to support others facing cancer. For him, the run is not only about raising money, but also about giving something back to a charity that supports patients and their families through difficult times.

The fundraiser has already gained encouraging support. Liam said he has collected around £150 in a matter of days, and he is aiming to reach a target of £500. That early total has given him confidence that the final figure could go well beyond his original goal.

Training for the run has become part of Liam’s daily routine. He said he did not used to run regularly, but recently he has begun running every day and steadily building up his distance. Each week, he increases the mileage a little more in preparation for the big day, hoping that the gradual progress will help him complete the challenge comfortably.

He believes the physical effort will be worthwhile, not only because it supports a cause close to his heart, but because running can also benefit mental wellbeing. Liam said many people turn to exercise when they are struggling, and he sees his challenge as a reminder that sport can be both personally meaningful and socially useful.

Liam intends to complete the route on his own, but he said he would welcome company from anyone willing to join him along the way. Supporters have already been encouraged to get behind the run and the hope is that friends, family, and local residents will come forward to cheer him on or even run alongside him for part of the journey.

Liam is aiming to finish the run in around three and a half hours. It is an ambitious target, but one he says he is determined to meet with steady training and strong motivation.

The story has struck a chord because it combines personal loss, community spirit, and a clear charitable purpose. In turning a painful memory into action, Liam is hoping to make a difference for people living with cancer while also setting himself a demanding but meaningful challenge.

To support Liam, click https://www.justgiving.com/page/liam-sheridan-1?utm_medium=FA&utm_source=CL