J&A Phillips’ director, Michael Birch, and his son Jonathan, completed the Cardiff Half Marathon on 4 October, raising over £3,000.
Inspired by the care their family received at Velindre Cancer Centre, their efforts formed part of a fundraising appeal by the family-run Newport builders merchants, which raised more than £3,000.
Customers, suppliers, friends, and the local community contributed through a series of breakfast mornings held at the business, a raffle, and donations made through the family's fundraising page.
Based in Maesglas, Newport, J&A Phillips is owned by Michael and his wife Christine. In January 2024, Christine was diagnosed with bowel cancer that had spread to her liver. The care and support she received from Velindre motivated Michael and Jonathan to take on the challenge.
Michael said: "Velindre has made such a difference to our family. The care and kindness shown to Christine have meant so much to us, and we cannot thank the team enough.
"Jonathan and I chose to run the Cardiff Half Marathon because we wanted to give something back and support the care Velindre provides for other families.
"Thank you to everyone who supported our breakfast mornings, bought raffle tickets or donated. You have helped us raise more than £3,000 for a place that means a great deal to us."
Completing the race brought together the father and son's running challenge and the fundraising activities supported by the business's customers and wider community.
The family and the team at J&A Phillips thanked everyone who contributed to the appeal or offered encouragement during their preparations and on race day.
