Chris Takes on London Marathon to Support Nightingale Macmillan Unit in Derby

Chris Dornan, from Derby, is gearing up to conquer the London Marathon later this month in a bid to raise funds for the Nightingale Macmillan Unit, situated at The Royal Derby Hospital.

Securing a coveted spot in this year’s marathon through the ballot, Chris is determined to use the opportunity to support the unit, driven by personal ties as his partner, Hannah, serves as a senior sister there. “I chose to raise funds for the unit as the team there work so hard day-to-day to ensure all patients receive the best care possible and that their families are well supported during their time in hospital”, said Chris.

An avid sports enthusiast, Chris embarked on his running journey a couple of years ago, gradually escalating from 5K jogs in his village to participating in 10K events. Reflecting on his marathon debut at Leeds in 2023, alongside Hannah and their running club, Chris said, “Hannah signed up to run the Leeds Marathon in May 2023 and, although the original plan was for me to go along to support, I ended up taking part as a member of her running club, who was also planning to take part, had to pull out through injury.

“We completed the Marathon in just over 5 hours and it was amazing to run alongside Hannah and be involved in the first Marathon in Leeds”.

Fuelled by his past running achievements, Chris is looking forward to taking on London Marathon on April 21st. Encouragingly, his fundraising efforts have exceeded expectations, surpassing the initial target of £260. Grateful for the overwhelming support, Chris emphasised the significance of every contribution, irrespective of its size, in propelling him towards the fundraising finish line.

Jill Matthews, Chief Officer at Derby and Burton Hospitals Charity, expressed her gratitude to Chris, stating the invaluable impact of his fundraising on the Nightingale Macmillan Unit’s mission to provide specialised care. “Every year, people like Chris, take part in sports and community events to raise vital funds for our charity.  Every penny that Chris raises running the London Marathon will go to the Nightingale Macmillan Unit which provides specialised palliative care to patients with progressive illnesses, offering comfort and support in their time of need.  

 I’d like to offer my sincere thanks to Chris for choosing to raise funds for us – every stride Chris takes in London will make a huge difference to patients and we are truly grateful.“

Approaching the final stretch of his marathon preparation, Chris remains focused and extends an encouraging message to aspiring fundraisers, Chris said, “just enjoy the day, soak in the atmosphere and remember the causes you are running for. The London Marathon is a bucket list race for many people, so I feel very lucky to have the opportunity to take part.”

For those wishing to raise funds for Derby and Burton Hospitals Charity, there are a number of places available for booking on their website www.dbhc.org.uk/events    Speaking about encouraging others to get involved, Chris said “If you are thinking about fundraising, I’d say Go for it! Every donation big or small goes a long way in making a difference to patients and their families. It feels amazing to be able to donate money for such a good cause and it will be one of my proudest achievements when I cross the finish line!”

Asked about his supporters on race day, Chris said, “Hannah will be there, along with a group from ‘Swad Joggers,’ my local running group in Swadlincote. It’s fantastic that some of them will also be running on the day. Of course, I’ll have the encouragement of my family and friends, who’ll be cheering me on from the comfort of home”.

To sponsor Chris, please visit his Just Giving page using the following link: https://www.justgiving.com/page/chris-dornan-1699804404795