On Sunday 12 October, the lions were out in force!
Friends, family and supporters laced up their trainers and took on the Royal Parks Half Marathon for Toby and for all the brave children battling cancer. A sea of Dear Toby Trust vests could be spotted throughout the course — an incredible and emotional sight as our runners made their way through the heart of London together.
This year, our team raised an amazing £15,148, bringing us another step closer to funding three additional doctors at Great Ormond Street Hospital. Every mile run and every pound donated is helping to make that goal a reality.
The Royal Parks Half introduced a new route for 2025, with runners taking on The Mall twice — the only London race to offer that iconic stretch in duplicate. The event itself also celebrated a record-breaking fundraising year overall, making it an especially inspiring day to be part of.
Among our fantastic runners was Anna Marrion, who completed her very first half marathon just a year after taking up running. Crossing the line in a brilliant 1hr 55, Anna said:
“It was a privilege to run the Royal Parks Half for the Dear Toby Trust with such a wonderful group of people. Tears of joy (and relief!) were shed at the finish line. I never thought I would be able to do something like this so I was super pleased with my time – the atmosphere and the support was incredible, and thoughts of Verity, Nathan and their brave little lion really helped me dig deep in those painful last few miles. It was all for you Toby.”
We are in awe of her determination, and of every single person who ran in Toby’s name.
To all our runners, supporters and donors — thank you. We are so proud of what you have achieved and so grateful for your generosity. Together, you are helping to change lives and continue Toby’s legacy in the most powerful way.
