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In August 2023, Phil Hibberd was diagnosed with cancer and was referred to The Christie. He said from the very start, the hospital provided him with excellent physical and emotional support. His treatment lasted 6 weeks and he received 2 rounds of chemotherapy and 30 sessions of radiotherapy. And in February 2024, Phil was relieved to find out that his cancer had gone into remission.
After his treatment was complete, Phil’s 2 daughters Rebecca and Rachel took on the Manchester Marathon in 2024. This inspired Phil and encouraged him and Rebecca to sign up for the London Marathon on 27 April 2025 for The Christie Charity. Phil previously ran the London Marathon in 1985 so is looking forward to taking it on again, some 40 years later.
As well as running the London Marathon with his daughter, Phil’s friend Paul has also signed up to take on the marathon with them.
Paul’s only experience with marathon running was in the late 90s in Manchester, running from Heaton Park to Wythenshawe Park on a warm autumn day. After not training properly, Paul said he 'hit the wall' at 16 miles and managed to drag himself over the finish line in 4 and a half hours. This time, he’s taking it more seriously and is following a strict training plan.
On top of supporting The Christie Charity to say thanks for Phil’s treatment, Paul also has his own personal connection to the hospital. After qualifying from Manchester University in 1980, Paul worked at The Christie first as a house officer for 3 months in 1981 and returned as a surgical trainee in 1984 for 6 months. Paul said he worked with an amazing group of surgeons and nurses doing some really inspiring work at the leading edge of cancer treatment.
“After taking on the Manchester Marathon in 2024, I’m beyond excited to tackle the iconic London Marathon this year!
