Meet the cancer survivor supporting The Christie from incredible heights

Phil Evans, a 41-year-old cancer survivor from Middleton, is set to conquer Manchester’s iconic Beetham Tower once again, all in the name of charity.

After successfully battling testicular cancer in 2018, Phil is now channelling his renewed energy into a gruelling challenge: the Christie Tower Run.

Phil Evans takes on the Beetham Tower

On Sunday, October 20, 2024, Phil will race up the 46 floors of the Beetham Tower for the third time, with 10 of his NatWest colleagues by his side.

Phil, a fitness enthusiast who was an avid runner and cyclist before his diagnosis, was forced to put his active lifestyle on hold when he began his battle with cancer.

Raising money for The Christie

However, after three tough rounds of chemotherapy and receiving the all-clear in May 2019, Phil made a promise to himself—to get back to fitness and give back to the place that saved his life.

Inspired by the care and support he received at The Christie, Phil has since thrown himself into numerous fundraising events, including the Manchester 10K and the Manchester Marathon.

In 2022, he took on The Christie Challenge, completing six fundraising activities in 12 months.

One of these events was the Christie Tower Run, where he sprinted up the tower in an impressive 5 minutes and 34 seconds.

The following year, he shaved 11 seconds off his time, proving that his determination and fitness had only grown stronger.

“The Christie hospital is a phenomenal place and, to put it bluntly, kept me alive!” Phil shared. “These challenges keep me focused, and I’m fitter than ever. I got a second chance, and I’m intent on making the most of it.”

Aiming for £10,000 raised

With over £8,000 already raised, Phil has set a new target of £1,200 for the 2024/25 period, hoping to reach a grand total of £10,000 for The Christie Charity.

This year, he won’t be climbing alone—10 of his colleagues from NatWest will join him, each with their connection to The Christie.

“When I’m in the office, I can see the Beetham Tower looming in the skyline, and I’m excited to take on the challenge with my colleagues,” Phil said.

“Running up such a tall building is a unique and exciting experience. It’s a great way to support The Christie Charity and do something different.”

The Christie Charity’s Mass Participation Events Officer, Joshua Hughff, expressed his gratitude: “We really value the support from Phil and his colleagues.

“Their generosity helps us provide crucial support to patients and families. We hope Phil’s story inspires others to donate or even take part in the Christie Tower Run.”

How to support Phil

To support Phil and The Christie Charity, you can sponsor him by visiting his JustGiving page.

For more information on how you can participate or donate, visit The Christie Charity’s website here