Two team members from digital construction specialists AJ Digital successfully completed one of the UK’s toughest endurance challenges earlier this month, running a 50-kilometre ultra marathon at Bewl Water on the Kent/Sussex border. The challenge, undertaken to raise funds for UK charity My Shining Star, saw company founder Christian Thomas and team member Ryan Donoghue finish the course in under seven hours.
Their chosen charity, My Shining Star, provides critical financial support to families of children diagnosed with cancer. When a child falls seriously ill, many parents are forced to stop working, relocate temporarily, or shoulder mounting costs for travel, accommodation and everyday essentials. The charity steps in to help ease that burden, providing practical help during the most emotionally and financially challenging time of a family’s life.
Christian and Ryan chose this ultra marathon precisely because it reflected the kind of endurance and determination they have witnessed in these families. Covering nearly five miles more than a traditional marathon, the 50km race became a personal symbol of going the extra mile – five times over - for families in crisis.
“We wanted to do something that pushed us to our limits,” said Christian, reflecting on the experience. “But what kept us going was the thought that no challenge we faced that day came close to what these children and their parents endure. That perspective kept us grounded and focused.”
Ryan added: “It was tough, mentally and physically, but the cause made every step worth it. We knew we were not just running for ourselves. We were running for families who don’t have the luxury of giving up when things get hard.”
To date, AJ Digital’s fundraising effort has reached £1,311.91, with a final goal of £2,000 in sight. Importantly, the JustGiving page remains open until 31st May, meaning there’s still time for supporters, friends, clients and the wider community to help the team cross the fundraising finish line.
Every donation goes directly to My Shining Star, ensuring immediate and meaningful impact. No matter the amount, contributions help relieve the financial strain on families who need every bit of strength and stability to stay focused on what truly matters - their child’s fight for survival.
“We’re grateful for every pound donated so far,” said Christian. “We’re close to hitting our target, and with one final push, we know we can make it. If you were thinking about donating but had not got round to it yet - now’s the perfect time.”
For those still wishing to support the cause, donations can be made via the team’s JustGiving page https://www.justgiving.com/page/ajdigital where all funds go directly to the charity.
