Ashleigh and her partner Connor will be running the 26.2-mile challenge for Havens Hospices, after both experiencing the care of Fair Havens first-hand.
Connor’s connection to the hospice began when his grandad was cared for there. Inspired by the support her family received, Connor’s mum later went on to work for the charity as a fundraiser.
More recently, Ashleigh’s dad, Malcolm, received compassionate care and support from Fair Havens for 12 weeks at the end of his life.
In 2019, Malcolm was diagnosed with Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (PSC), a rare liver disease affecting the bile ducts. In July 2024, he underwent a liver transplant and bile duct reconstruction but sadly was later diagnosed with bile duct cancer. By September 2025, his condition was confirmed as incurable. He was supported at home before being admitted to Fair Havens on 16 December 2025.
Ashleigh said, “Dad was a wealth of knowledge – if something was broken, he could tell you how to fix it. If you needed a recipe, he could tell you what ingredients you needed and how to make it.”
Reflecting on the care both families received, she added, “The physical and emotional support that Havens Hospices provided for my dad and Connor’s grandad made an immeasurable difference to both of our families.
“As a family, we could not have survived this horrific journey without the support from Havens Hospices. The team showed incredible compassion, not only caring for him with dignity and respect, but also supporting us through one of the most difficult times in our lives. Knowing he was comfortable and in such safe hands brought us a sense of peace that we will always be grateful for.”
Taking on the London Marathon together is a way for Ashleigh and Connor to honour their loved ones and give something back to the charity that supported them.
“Learning we both had places to run the London Marathon for Havens Hospices in memory of my dad and Connor’s grandad filled us with pride,” she said.
“We are honoured to be able to pay tribute to them and determined to raise funds to support a cause that is truly important to us.
“It feels incredibly meaningful to turn something so personal into a positive challenge, and to give back to the charity that supported our families during such a difficult time.
“Knowing that the funds we are raising will help to support other families in similar situations brings a profound sense of fulfilment and purpose. Having experienced first-hand the care and compassion that Havens Hospices provide, it means so much to be able to give something back and help ensure other families receive that same support when they need it most.”
Havens Hospices provides specialist care and support for adults and children living with complex or incurable conditions across Essex, helping families make every day count.
To support Ashleigh and Connor and help them reach their fundraising target, visit https://www.justgiving.com/page/ashleigh-connor-havens
To find out more about Havens Hospices and how you can support the charity, visit www.havenshospices.org.uk
Published on 23rd April 2026
