WAY’s autumn 2025 fundraising update

October 2025

As the autumn events season gathers pace, WAY members and supporters have been out in full force – running, walking, swimming and even preparing to do a skydive – all to raise vital funds and awareness for WAY Widowed and Young. Here’s a look at some of the incredible fundraising efforts taking place up and down the UK.

Racing for Gareth – Charity Race Night, 11 October

WAY volunteer Alex organised a Charity Race Night earlier this month in memory of her partner Gareth, who died suddenly from an aortic dissection on New Year’s Eve 2023, aged just 44.

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“WAY Widowed and Young have been a lifeline to me since Gareth died,” says Alex. “Sometimes it’s hard to talk about things with friends and family, despite all their love and support, but this group just get it. They’re amazing – and I now volunteer organising events for members in Warwickshire.”

With deep family roots in horse racing – and Gareth’s love of a day at the races – the event felt like a fitting tribute. Alongside the races, guests enjoyed a raffle with fantastic prizes including racing tickets, a gin distillery tour and a racing club membership.

Alex also supported The Aortic Charitable Trust through the evening, honouring Gareth’s memory while helping others affected by sudden cardiac conditions. Huge thanks to Alex, who has raised £350 for WAY.

Lighting up Bournemouth – Supernova 5K, 11 October

Friends Simon and Ben took on the Run Bournemouth Supernova 5K, running along the seafront in the glow of thousands of lights from Bournemouth Pier to raise more than £400 for WAY.

The duo ran in honour of a close friend who lost his fiancé last year. “WAY have been an enormous support to him during this tremendously difficult time,” they shared on their JustGiving page, “as they are to so many other tragically bereaved people.”

Running through the seasons – Royal Parks Half Marathon, 12 October

WAY runner Hannah laced up her trainers for the Royal Parks Half Marathon, sharing an inspiring message about what motivated her to raise more than £1,500 for our charity:

“I’ll be running for WAY because without the platform of peer support in the early and isolating days of my loss – and the movement from running – I wouldn’t have found the courage to keep putting one foot in front of the other.”

Also signed up for the event were Ellie, running in support of her father, and Allyson, who after injury has pledged to complete her challenge at the Whitstable Half Marathon on 1 November instead.

Stepping Out – Seagrave Challenge, 8 November

WAY fundraiser Dawn is taking on the Seagrave Challenge, a gruelling 16-mile walk through Leicestershire’s autumn countryside next month. 

Taking to the skies – November skydive

Last but very much not least, WAY volunteer Michelle is set to make a 13,000ft leap of faith, skydiving to raise funds and awareness for WAY. Having promoted her challenge at the WAY AGM and shared updates on social media, she’s hoping her bravery will inspire others to support the charity that means so much to her.

“I still remember the police knocking on my door in February 2022 – and the compassionate officer who delivered the devastating news with such gentleness and kindness, in the softest voice. That moment changed everything. Recovering from that day was my bravest act. Choosing life, even when I didn’t want to. Today, I’m simply grateful. Grateful that I’m still here, that I made it through, that I can smile and laugh again. Three years ago, that felt impossible. And now – jumping out of a plane feels like the ultimate symbol of choosing to live, to face fear, to survive, and to truly thrive.”

Michelle has already raised nearly £800. 

Get involved

From half marathons to six-mile swims, every step, stride and skydive helps WAY continue to offer connection and understanding to those navigating life after loss.

A huge thank you to all our amazing fundraisers – and to everyone who donated, volunteered or cheered them on.

Feeling inspired?
💙 Join Team WAY for an upcoming event or create your own fundraiser. Whether you walk, run, bake or brave new heights, every effort helps ensure no young widow or widower has to face grief alone.

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