Bradford Man Prepares for London Marathon in Tribute to Late Brother
A Bradford man is gearing up to participate in the TCS London Marathon this Sunday, April 26, as a heartfelt tribute to his younger brother, John, who passed away at Sue Ryder Wheatfields Hospice at the age of 22. James Derrig, a 38-year-old insurance professional, will join thousands of runners to raise crucial funds for the hospice that supported John during his final weeks.
James explains that running has become a powerful tool for managing his grief and a meaningful way to give back to the organization that assisted his family in a time of need. "John was a beautiful young man," James shares. "He was gentle, funny, and musical—we both shared a passion for drumming and bonded over music from an early age. With his long curly hair, tall stature, and gentle demeanor, he had a unique presence."
John's Journey and Diagnosis
John had XYY syndrome, a condition on the autism spectrum, which often made school challenging for him. "He found it tough at times," James notes. "But when I returned home after being away, he was truly discovering himself, with a great group of friends, a girlfriend, and a deep engagement with music. We were reconnecting, and it felt like we were just beginning to build our relationship again."
In February 2017, John was diagnosed with advanced oesophageal cancer. "Everything happened so quickly," James recalls. "His health declined over a couple of months, with frequent hospital visits where our parents spent most of their time. John understood cancer, but I don't think he fully grasped the severity of his situation, maintaining his innocence throughout."
The Role of Sue Ryder Wheatfields Hospice
When John was admitted to Sue Ryder Wheatfields Hospice, the environment shifted dramatically. "It was completely different from the hospital," James says. "The atmosphere was calm, gentle, and homely. The staff were incredible—understanding, patient, and unfazed by the high emotions. They provided unwavering support during a difficult period."
The hospice team ensured John's comfort in his final days, accommodating his needs, such as multiple daily baths for soothing relief. "They made the best of a truly awful situation," James adds.
Turning to Running for Healing
After John's death, James focused on supporting his family, but he experienced a crash after the funeral. Running emerged as a coping mechanism. "I had fundraised for other charities before, but Sue Ryder Wheatfields Hospice always stayed on my mind," he explains. "During lockdown, hearing about funding struggles for hospices reinforced my desire to help. Running a marathon to raise money felt like a purposeful way to honor John and give back."
James previously ran the Manchester Marathon for Sue Ryder in 2023, but the London Marathon represents a personal challenge. "It's always been a bucket list goal," he states. "I'm not a professional runner, but running has significantly improved my mental health. Doing it for Sue Ryder adds real meaning to the effort."
Training and Personal Connections
Training for the marathon has been progressing well. "I'm older and wiser now," James laughs. "I'm listening to my body, following the training plan properly, and avoiding overexertion. I recently completed my first half-marathon distance and feel positive about my progress."
Music plays a vital role in both his training and grief process. "John and I bonded over music, and after he died, some songs were too painful to hear for years," James shares. "Now, I use them as motivation. Sometimes, I include a visit to his grave as part of my run, which helps me stay connected to him."
James also performs in a country band formed in John's memory and plans to have a special playlist for marathon day. "I'm already thinking about the music, but I've heard that taking out earphones to soak up the atmosphere can be a special moment," he says.
Fundraising Efforts and Community Support
In addition to marathon training, James and his family and friends are organizing a major fundraising event at Caroline Street Social Club in Saltaire on Saturday, April 18. The event will feature live bands, a pizza van, children's activities, a raffle, and a silent auction. "We've already raised around £2,000 from ticket sales and donations, with more expected," James reports.
As marathon day approaches, James reflects on his motivation. "I often think about John while running, and I like to believe he would be proud of me," he says. "Running has helped me navigate grief, and supporting Sue Ryder Wheatfields Hospice feels like a meaningful way to repay the care they provided."
