Walk of Light March Step Challenge 2026 banner image with smiling supporter.

Why funding for blood cancer research matters

Every step counts this March because blood cancer claims 15,000 lives each year. To help shine a light on the third biggest cancer killer we’re asking you – our community – to come together and walk to beat blood cancer.

We're a community dedicated to beating blood cancer. We do this by funding research and supporting those affected. Since 1960, we've invested over £500 million in blood cancer research, transforming treatments and saving lives. The day we beat blood cancer is now in sight and our researchers are determined to finish the job.

We walk to keep the memory of our loved ones burning bright. We walk to shine a ray of hope for someone as they face their darkest moments. We walk to light the path towards a brighter future.

So, keep sharing your challenge and together we can be the generation to beat blood cancer.

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How your money will make a difference

£45

Could fund our blood cancer support team to provide emotional and practical support to your loved ones in need.

£150

Could fund a researcher to analyse 120 blood cell samples. Because of you, any one of them could hold the key to a new discovery.

£300

Could fund a PhD student to conduct vital research for three days. PhD students are sustaining the UK’s world-leading blood cancer research, and thanks to your support this is possible.

Clinical trial nurse and patient seated in a waiting room, chatting.

£500

Could fund a clinical trials nurse specialist for three days, giving your loved one a hand to hold and vital care when it’s needed most.

Cheryl's story

Cheryl’s partner Paul had been feeling unwell, he went to the doctors that morning for a routine blood test. By dinner time, he was diagnosed with leukaemia.

“We had no idea Paul had blood cancer; it was a massive shock. He’d been tired and struggling with colds and flu but we’d recently bought a house which needed a refurb so we put it down to being overworked.”

Paul was immediately admitted to hospital and treatment started for his diagnosis of chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML). He spent three weeks in hospital whilst they got his white blood cells under control.

“I heard about Blood Cancer UK when reading information given to us by Paul’s nurse. I was scared to read anything at first, but I did follow the Facebook page. I continued to do my research about blood cancer and remember Paul’s consultant saying, ‘20 years ago, people were not surviving’. It was then I realised what a miracle these drugs are, how expensive they are and in a strange way how lucky Paul was to have them.

I struggled emotionally to cope with Paul’s diagnosis. I’m a very practical person and initially went to give blood to do something useful. They turned me away as I’d been taking migraine tablets. I remember crying and feeling useless. It was then I saw the Blood Cancer UK challenge.

I’m enjoying being able to do something useful - raising much needed funds.

It’s given me a focus and whilst out walking, I find I can relax and find some peace.

The information Blood Cancer UK provides helped me understand Paul’s diagnosis and the vital research they fund gives our loved ones a chance at life.”

I would absolutely encourage people to sign up. Not only are you raising vital funds, you’ll give yourself a target or goal to aim for.”

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