Cumbrian fundraiser Gary McKee has set off on the first of 100 marathons today in aid of Hospice at Home West Cumbria.
The 56-year-old, of Cleator Moor, aims to run a marathon every day for 100 days, finishing with the London Marathon on Sunday April 26 where he will be joined by his son Beau.
The ambitious 100toLDN challenge, which comes just after Gary was awarded an MBE in the New Year Honours, aims to raise £100,000 for the hospice.
The total will bring Gary’s overall fundraising to £1 million, a milestone he has been working towards for several years through a series of remarkable endurance feats.
Gary, widely known as Cumbria’s Marathon Man, ran a marathon every day throughout 2022, raising over £1 million for Macmillan Cancer Support and Hospice at Home West Cumbria.
In recognition of his efforts, he was appointed vice president of Hospice at Home West Cumbria in 2023.
Starting from his hometown of Cleator Moor, Gary will complete the majority of his runs locally, but will also travel across West Cumbria, joining schools, community groups and supporters to promote the benefits of getting outdoors and staying active.
Gary said: “Reaching that £1 million target for Hospice at Home West Cumbria has been in my sights for a long time, and with just £100,000 to go, the 100toLDN challenge is my way of giving it one last big push.
“It’s a real bonus that Beau will be running the London Marathon with me at the end – he’s been there throughout the journey, so it’ll be a proud moment to cross the line together.
“This challenge is also a great chance to get back into the community – visiting schools, running with local groups, and encouraging people to get outdoors and stay active. That’s always been a big part of what it’s all about for me.
“Hospice at Home West Cumbria do incredible work supporting local families when they need it most. Every pound raised makes a difference, and I’m committed to doing whatever I can to help them keep going.”
Julie Monk, chief executive of Hospice at Home West Cumbria, said: “Gary has been a dedicated supporter of Hospice at Home West Cumbria for many years, and we are honoured to have him as a vice president.
“None of this would be possible without the incredible support and generosity from Gary and our wider community. Every pound raised makes a real difference and brings hope and comfort to those who need it most.
“This challenge will be tough, but if anyone can rise to it, it’s Gary.
“Hospice at Home West Cumbria has supported thousands of people across the region for nearly 40 years, offering specialist palliative and end of life care, as well as emotional and practical support for patients and families.
“His determination is an inspiration to us all. I urge everyone to please get behind Gary and help us continue making a difference. Every donation, big or small, truly matters.
