Suffolk dad set to tackle back-to-back marathons to honour late wife

A Suffolk dad is preparing to run two marathons on consecutive weekends in memory of his wife, while raising funds for Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity’s Radiotherapy Fund. 

Mike Green will take on both the Manchester and London Marathons in 2026 in honour of his wife Collette, a paediatric dietitian at Ipswich Hospital, who sadly died from cancer in 2025 after receiving treatment there. 

Collette herself completed the same two-marathon challenge in 2023, inspiring Mike to follow in her footsteps and raise funds for the radiotherapy team that supported her during treatment. 

Collette was an integral part of the team at East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust (ESNEFT) and helped many children and their families, especially in the areas of paediatric diabetes, cystic fibrosis and childhood oncology. 

Alongside preparing for the 26.2-mile challenges, Mike is balancing marathon training with caring for his two daughters, Emily (13) and Abi (10), fitting runs around family life. 

Mike said, “Collette was the most amazing wife and the best mum to our girls. When the training gets tough, I’ll think about the courage she showed and know she’s there with me every step of the way.” 

To help boost his fundraising, Mike will also be holding a cake sale at Ipswich Hospital on 31 March 2026. 

Fundraising Manager Sandra Gosney said, “Mike’s determination to honour Collette’s memory through this incredible challenge is truly inspiring. Every pound raised will help support patients and families just like his at one of the most challenging times of their lives.” 

To support Mike’s fundraising visit: https://www.justgiving.com/page/mike-green-3