Neil Gibson Newcastle Gateshead Marathon

Not many people will know, but my nephew Rory was born with a rare immune condition, which essentially meant he didn't have one, leaving him open to potentially life-threatening outcomes. Thankfully, he underwent a prolonged stem cell transplant treatment in the summer of 2025 at The Great North Children's Hospital. I'm so proud of Rory, my sister Lorna and Alex, her husband for getting through what was obviously a prolonged, stressful and traumatic experience! I'm glad to say that Rory is now well on the road to recovery, with treatment ongoing and subsequently doing very well! The Bubble Foundation charity supported them comprehensively throughout treatment, making the journey slightly easier with the provision of essential items and care during the prolonged treatment process. I now want to give something back to the charity in recognition of the support they have given my family in the most challenging circumstances. Therefore, I'm entering the Gateshead 10k run. While sounding a breeze to some, for a middle-aged, overweight bloke who likes his fair share of beer and cake, I can find any excuse not to train, it's quite a challenge!

All I'm asking is that you donate the average (maybe upper price) for a pub pint = £5, as a donation. Or more if you're feeling flush to buy a pretend round, or maybe somewhat charitable!

While I "jest”, the funds will help families like mine to navigate the situation of a gravely ill child and the treatment that inevitably ensues to make it a little easier.

I will, where appropriate, be wearing an arm band at work and out and about promoting the cause. I will have the ability to take contactless payment for ease of donation and hopefully create a positive awareness and conversation around the subject! Obviously, donate on Just Giving if you can, any amount will do!! I'm not going to hold you to it.......

Feel free to stop me and donate some dosh, or simply find out more about the amazing treatment journey of Rory Kett, his family and how he is doing now or simply mock me on the likelihood of me finishing alive and/or not looking like a beetroot by the end of the run!!! *the actual run is on 3rd May 2026.

*for full transparency any contactless dotation's have a 1.75% charge for the service provider of which I will "make up the difference myself" to ensure the full amount is donated.

Official information about the charity:

We restore immune systems & rebuild lives.

The Bubble Foundation are here to give children with life-threatening immune conditions the best possible chance of a full recovery and to make life a little easier for families navigating the trauma of a poorly child.

Our vision: A world where children with life-threatening immune conditions have the chance, not just to survive, but to thrive.

Registered Charity Number 1024552