When her husband Xander started feeling poorly, Laura Coleman-Day and her son, Amos, initially chalked it up to a common ailment often encountered at their son’s nursery in Witham St Hughs, Lincolnshire. The family, who worked and lived diligently, didn’t suspect anything more serious. However, Xander, a robust RAF aerospace battle manager, received a diagnosis of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, a virulent form of blood cancer. Initially, there was a sense of hope after a stem cell transplant but, unfortunately, Xander developed complications and tragically died in February 2024 at the age of 36.
Fuelled by a desire to honour Xander’s memory, Laura embarked on a touching journey of perseverance. She pledged to run 12 marathons over a span of 12 months, successfully raising an exceptional amount of over £14,000 to donate to Anthony Nolan, the charity that had supported them through their ordeal. Marking their sixth wedding anniversary, Laura plans to participate in the London Marathon clad in her wedding dress – a fitting tribute to the love they shared.
Laura recalls that Xander was always her greatest supporter, and through her tireless efforts, she not only memorialises a beloved husband but also brings light to the cause and offers help others grappling with similar life-altering challenges.
The is an adaptation from an original article featured on lincolnshirelive.co.uk, brought to you by The Lincoln Post.
