Team Chai Surpasses £38,000 at TCS London Marathon

Four dedicated runners proudly represented Team Chai at this year’s TCS London Marathon, taking on one of the world’s most iconic races to support the work of Chai. The team has already raised more than £38,000 in vital funds – with donations continuing to come in as their achievement inspires further support.

Jamie Davila took on the London Marathon route in support of Chai and has so far raised a phenomenal £9,557. Finishing in 4 hours 22 minutes, he said: “Running the London Marathon for Chai was a brilliant experience and a real privilege. Having the chance to run for a charity doing such important work made the day mean even more.

The support from Chai was incredible, both in the lead-up and out on the course. The atmosphere and encouragement made a huge difference and helped carry me through the tougher moments.

Crossing the finish line was a proud moment, and I’m grateful to have represented Chai and played a small part in supporting the amazing work they do.”

Miranda Shemen who completed the marathon in an impressive 4 hours 04 minutes, has so far raised an amazing £15,714 for Chai. Miranda said: “I feel so grateful to have run for this beautiful charity, supporting those in exceptional circumstances. Well done Team Chai!”

Yoni Bartal delivered a standout performance, finishing 61st overall with an exceptional time of 2 hours 24 minutes. He has raised £7,574 to date. “Running the London Marathon with an explosion of emotions. I went all in. I ran faster than I planned. It was all worth it – every step was to support the incredible work of Chai.”

Noah Bezalel, who raised £4,765 and completed the marathon in 4 hours 44 minutes, said: “It was a really special experience to go through the fundraising, the training and the run. Chai holds such a special place for me and my family. In December 2017, my Dad was diagnosed with a rare form of incurable salivary gland cancer aged 45. I was 15 at the time, my Mum 43 and sister and brother 12 and 7. Overnight, the trajectory of our family changed; not just for us, but for my aunties and uncles, grandparents and cousins too. It is hard to put into words what this felt like; for us, as a young family, to have everything flip on its head so quickly, we were left helpless. We turned to Chai.

Throughout his illness and after he passed away, Chai was there for all of us, including my Dad; with personal support for each of us for as long as we each required, with no charge or questions asked. Almost immediately after my Dad was diagnosed, my Mum got in contact with Chai. We were aware of the work that Chai did, but had never been in contact with them ourselves. When approached, Chai immediately provided unbelievable support for our whole family for the entirety of his illness. No questions asked. We were privileged to be able to be the recipients of the fantastic work they do, helping to support and guide families like ours through a situation that no family ever wishes to have to experience.”

Caroline Tunkel, Chai’s Head of Corporate & Community Engagement, said: “What a remarkable day for Team Chai! We are so proud of each of our runners who dedicated so much of their time into training and gave the day their all. Their efforts make a real difference, helping Chai continue to stand alongside individuals and families facing a cancer diagnosis. We are deeply grateful for their commitment and for the incredible generosity shown by everyone who has supported and donated along the way.”