Marathon Runner's Heartfelt Tribute to Partner Who Died at 35
Darren Whitley, a 36-year-old from Stourbridge, West Midlands, is set to run the TCS London Marathon this year in a poignant tribute to his partner, Jess Roberts, who passed away from terminal cancer at the age of 35. The marathon holds special significance as the couple ran it together four years ago, and now Mr Whitley is fundraising for Marie Curie, the charity that provided essential support during Ms Roberts' final days.
Final Hours at Home with Marie Curie Support
When Jess Roberts' condition deteriorated rapidly after her cancer spread to the brain, Darren Whitley made the decision to bring her home from Russells Hall Hospital in Dudley. He wanted her to spend her last moments in the comfort of their home, surrounded by family, friends, and their beloved dog, Calvin. A Marie Curie nurse named Michelle stayed by Ms Roberts' bedside overnight, offering care and comfort, which Mr Whitley described as an "incredibly calming influence." He emphasised that having Michelle there felt like having a selfless friend during that difficult time, ensuring they were in good hands.
Jess Roberts' Journey and Resilience
Jess Roberts, an optical assistant from Dudley, was diagnosed with stage three breast cancer at age 29, less than a year after she and Mr Whitley started their relationship in 2017. She underwent extensive treatment, including chemotherapy, a mastectomy, and radiotherapy, and was given the all-clear in December 2018. The couple celebrated with holidays and shared a passion for running, with Ms Roberts completing the London Marathon in 2022 for Breast Cancer Care, a moment Mr Whitley joined her for after seven miles to run the rest together.
Devastating Return of Cancer
In September 2023, during a trip to Dublin, Ms Roberts developed a persistent cough that led to the discovery of secondary breast cancer, which had spread to her lungs and liver. Despite being told it was terminal stage four, she continued to live life to the fullest, including a trip to Disneyland Paris in early 2024. However, her health declined quickly when the cancer spread to her brain, leading to confusion and loss of independence.
Marie Curie's Vital Role in End-of-Life Care
As Ms Roberts' condition worsened, Mr Whitley called Marie Curie, who sent nurse Michelle to provide 12 hours of overnight care. This allowed Mr Whitley and Ms Roberts' mother, Joanna, to get some rest, knowing she was in capable hands. Mr Whitley praised the charity for its knowledge and bedside manner, highlighting how Michelle never left Ms Roberts' side. Jess Roberts passed away on April 13, 2024, at home with Calvin by her side.
Fundraising for a Cause Close to the Heart
Darren Whitley will run the London Marathon on April 26 with a photo of Jess on his top, aiming to raise funds for Marie Curie. He notes that a donation of £23 can cover an hour of nursing care for someone with a terminal illness. Working in banking, Mr Whitley hopes to encourage others to seek support from Marie Curie, emphasising that it is not an admission of failure but a resource to help families in similar situations. This marathon will be his sixth overall and fourth in London, marking the first one without Ms Roberts present, as she had attended all his previous London races.
Marie Curie is the charity of the year for the 2026 TCS London Marathon.
