22/08/2026
Today's the day, Kai!
Today, 22-year-old Kai Staines from Great Notley, Essex takes on an incredible 82km run across Essex, one kilometre for every year of his beloved Nan Diane's life.
Diane sadly passed away in 2025 after being diagnosed with throat cancer. She would have celebrated her 82nd birthday on August 17th, and today, Kai is honouring her memory in the most extraordinary way; running from Great Notley, through Rayne, Felsted, Great Waltham and Great Leighs, before finishing back on the green at Great Notley.
Kai has been training hard for this moment, and today he'll be supported every step of the way by friends and family, some of whom are joining him for sections of the route.
In his own words:
"Nan was a huge part of everyone's lives, and I wanted to do something to remember her and help others in her situation. I hope Nan would be proud of what I'm attempting."
We are so proud to be part of Kai's tribute to Diane today. Every mile he runs helps us continue our work supporting people affected by head and neck cancer, and funding vital research.
Good luck today, Kai, we'll be thinking of you and Diane every step of the way.
Support Kai's incredible challenge: https://bit.ly/donate-for-nan