A Newport woman has raised more than £5,000 for a Cowes-based cancer charity after completing the 2026 TCS London Marathon.
26-year-old Tallulah Shepherdly took on the iconic 26.2-mile challenge in support of the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust, which supported her after she was diagnosed with bilateral Wilms tumour – a form of kidney cancer – as a toddler.
The East Cowes-based charity helps young people aged 8-24 living through and beyond cancer by taking them on sailing and outdoor adventures designed to rebuild confidence, independence and optimism for the future.
Reflecting on marathon day, Tallulah said:
“Marathon day was incredible. Friends had told me how amazing the atmosphere would be, but it was even better than I imagined. The crowds were nonstop and honestly carried me through the tougher moments.
“Crossing the finish line felt unbelievable. I’d really struggled over the last few miles with my asthma and an injury, so turning that final corner and seeing the finish come into view was such a relief and a huge rush.”
Tallulah’s fundraising efforts formed part of a wider campaign by runners supporting the charity at this year’s marathon.
Speaking about the impact of the fundraising, she added:
“The day before the marathon, we were told that between all the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust runners we’d already raised enough money to fully fund 75 young people’s adventures. Knowing that was an incredible motivator to keep going.”
The charity says cancer can continue to affect young people’s mental wellbeing long after treatment has ended, with friendships, education and confidence often impacted.
Through sailing and outdoor adventures, the Trust aims to help young people rediscover what they are capable of while connecting with others who have faced similar experiences.
The Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust has now opened applications for its charity places in the 2027 TCS London Marathon.
More information can be found on the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust website.
Tallulah’s fundraising page can be viewed at her Enthuse fundraising page.
Well done, great to see a real hero.