With the 2026 London Marathon fast approaching on Sunday 26 April, Jonathan Lee Recruitment’s James Tilley is entering the final stretch of his training — both physically and emotionally.
What started as a personal challenge has become something far more meaningful.
A Journey Built on Consistency and Purpose
Training over the past few months has been steady and disciplined.
“I’ve stayed consistent running three times a week and gradually built up the mileage,” James explains. “There have been a few tough weeks with injuries, but I’m in a good place heading into the final stretch.”
Like many marathon runners, the biggest challenge hasn’t just been the miles — it’s been fitting everything in.
“Balancing training alongside work and day-to-day life has been tough, especially committing to the longer runs at weekends.”
And then there are the harder moments — the ones no training plan can prepare you for.
“There have definitely been runs where the legs felt heavy and motivation dipped. Those are the moments where I’ve had to remind myself why I’m doing it.”
Running with Perspective
As race day approaches, James admits the emotions are complex.
“It brings a mix of feelings — I’m incredibly happy that the nightmare now seems to be over, but it’s also given me a huge amount of perspective and appreciation for life.”
That perspective comes from his wife Stacey’s battle with Gestational Trophoblastic Disease (GTD) — a rare and aggressive cancer.
Today, there is cautious optimism.
“She’s okay, which is the most important thing. We’re still monitoring her hCG levels every two weeks, but things are heading in the right direction.”
Stacey has also become part of the journey in her own way.
“She’s been a big part of it. She’s even started running herself, joined a run club, and completed her first ever parkrun last week — which is amazing.”
More Than Just a Marathon
For James, crossing the finish line will mean far more than completing 26.2 miles.
“It means a lot. I’ve trained so hard and want to do it justice — but it’s not just about finishing a marathon. It’s about raising awareness and as much money as possible for CTRT to give something back.”
The Cancer Treatment & Research Trust (CTRT) played a vital role during Stacey’s treatment — something James has experienced first-hand.
“It’s not just about treatment, it’s about the support and care they provide during an incredibly difficult time. The research they fund genuinely makes a difference.”
Donations go far beyond funding medicine — they help improve outcomes and ensure patients don’t feel alone.
Race Day Is Getting Close
Standing on the start line in London will be a moment to take it all in.
“It’ll be a mix of nerves and excitement — but mainly focusing on why I’m there and who I’m doing it for.”
Like most runners, James knows exactly where the real challenge lies.
“I’m looking forward to that finish line moment, but I know the last few miles are going to be tough.”
While finishing is the priority, he’s quietly set himself some targets:
- Sub-4 hours would be a strong result
- Sub-3:45 would be a great achievement
- Sub-3:30? “That would be incredible — but it’ll take a real push on the day”
The Final Push for £5,000
With just weeks to go, the focus now turns to fundraising.
“I’m getting closer to the £5,000 target, but there’s still a bit to go — so every bit of support helps.”
Hitting — or even exceeding — that goal before race day would mean everything.
“It would be amazing to know we’ve raised as much as possible for such an important cause before even getting to the start line.”
How You Can Support James
Every donation, no matter the size, makes a real difference.
“It directly supports people going through something incredibly tough.”
👉 Support James here:
https://2026tcslondonmarathon.enthuse.com/pf/james-tilley-london2026-ctrt
Whether you donate, share his story, or cheer him on — you’re helping raise awareness of GTD and supporting life-changing research.
One Final Reason
When the miles get tough on marathon day, James already knows what will carry him through.
A reminder of why he started — and who he’s running for.
Did you know? Jonathan Lee Recruitment has not one, but two runners taking on the 2026 London Marathon. Alongside James, Julian Ball is also running — raising vital funds for Phab. You can read James’ story here. – You can read about his story here
Share this blog post
