Essex Roofer Takes on World’s Highest Marathon for Cancer Charity

ESSEX ROOFER, former boxer and Christian deacon Jimmy Roe is preparing to take on one of the world’s most extreme endurance events – the Tenzing Hillary Everest Marathon – to raise £50,000 for Young Lives vs Cancer.

The race will take place on 29 May 2026, starting at Everest Base Camp (5,364m above sea level), where oxygen levels are just half those at sea level.

Jimmy is running in memory of his stepson Logan Falconer, who sadly passed away from neuroblastoma 19 years ago. At the time, the charity – then known as CLIC Sargent – supported Jimmy’s wife Kelly and their children Kieran, Kane, Zane and Harley, helping them through the most difficult period of their lives.

“Young Lives vs Cancer were there for us when we needed them most,” says Jimmy Roe. “They continue to help thousands of families every day, and this challenge is my way of giving something back.”

Everest Marathon Challenge

The Everest Marathon is officially recognised as the world’s highest marathon. Simply reaching the start line involves trekking through the Himalayas for nearly two weeks to acclimatise to the altitude. Runners battle freezing temperatures, steep trails, and low oxygen levels – conditions that make even walking a challenge.

Jimmy, who balances his training with running a busy roofing business, says his background in boxing and his Christian faith have prepared him mentally for the fight ahead.

“Boxing taught me resilience, and my faith gives me strength,” he says. “This will test every ounce of that – but I’ll keep going for Logan and for all the families the charity supports.”

Support for Jimmy’s challenge is already building, with Tottenham Hotspur FC set to feature his story in their matchday programme, and trade partners such as the National Federation of Roofing Contractors backing his mission.

Jimmy is also inviting other companies in the roofing and construction industries to get involved – through sponsorship, awareness campaigns, or fundraising events.

“If every roofer in the UK gave just £1, we could smash our £50,000 target,” says Jimmy. “Together, we can make a real difference to children and families facing cancer.”

Support Jimmy

To support Jimmy’s Everest Challenge and help him reach his goal, visit his JustGiving page here.

You can also follow his journey on social media, where he’ll be sharing training updates, behind-the-scenes videos, and his progress as he prepares to take roofing – and faith – to new heights on Mount Everest. Follow Jimmy on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

>> Read more of the latest charity news