Gateshead son runs 2,704 miles across 2026 in memory of his dad for North East suicide prevention charity
Gateshead runner James McLeod is completing his 52 for 52 challenge across 2026, running an average of 52 miles a week (2,704 miles in total) in memory of his dad Jimmy for the If U Care Share Foundation.
Following the loss of his 52-year-old dad Jimmy in November 2025, 26-year-old James McLeod from Gateshead launched 52 for 52, running 2,704 miles across 2026 and hosting the Jimmy McLeod Memorial Cup to raise funds for If U Care Share Foundation.
A 26-year-old from Gateshead near Newcastle is turning personal loss into a year-long community effort, running 2,704 miles across 2026 in memory of his dad.
After losing his dad Jimmy to suicide on 30 November 2025 at the age of 52, James McLeod launched 52 for 52: a commitment to run an average of 52 miles a week for all 52 weeks of 2026 while raising funds and awareness for the North East suicide prevention and support charity If U Care Share Foundation.
A community rallying together
What started as a personal tribute has grown into a wider North East community campaign. Local running clubs, businesses and neighbours across Gateshead and the region have joined runs and backed the appeal.
In September, James and his supporters organised the Jimmy McLeod Memorial Cup, drawing around 150 spectators and raising more than £2,000 on the day alone. The campaign has also received backing from regional figures including Denise Welch, Mary Foy MP and Liz Twist MP, alongside coverage on BBC Radio Newcastle and at the Great North Run.
The Long Way Home
As the challenge enters the final months of the year, marking International Men's Day on 19 November and the first anniversary of Jimmy's death on 30 November, James is preparing for a final milestone run titled The Long Way Home on 31 December 2026 to complete the 2,704-mile year.
Writing to Good News England, James said the response has shown "how one family and their community can turn personal tragedy into collective action".
How to support the appeal
You can follow the challenge on Instagram at @jiggsy_mc07 or donate via James's 52 for 52 JustGiving page for If U Care Share Foundation.
If you or someone you know needs support around mental health or suicide bereavement in the North East and beyond, If U Care Share Foundation can be reached on 0191 387 5661 or via text (text IUCS to 85258).
Story submitted directly to Good News England by James McLeod, founder of 52 for 52.
This article was produced with AI assistance and reviewed under our editorial guidelines.
Frequently asked questions
What is James McLeod's 52 for 52 running challenge in Gateshead?
James McLeod, 26, from Gateshead, is running an average of 52 miles per week for all 52 weeks of 2026 (around 2,704 miles in total) in memory of his dad Jimmy, who died in November 2025 aged 52. The challenge raises money and awareness for the North East suicide prevention charity If U Care Share Foundation.