A former Harrow resident, Adrian Conoboy MBE, is preparing to walk 40 miles across London in under 24 hours to raise funds for children affected by cancer.
The challenge, set to take place on World Cancer Day (4 February), will see Adrian and his team visit seven iconic football stadiums while aiming to raise £10,000 for We Can Kick It, the charity he founded.
Adrian, who grew up in Harrow and attended St George’s Primary School, is a brain cancer survivor and football coach. His journey will start at Selhurst Park at 6 am and include stops at Crystal Palace, West Ham, Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, Fulham, and Brentford stadiums. Joining him will be close friends and young cancer survivors, united in their mission to make football a source of hope and strength for children affected by cancer.
“This walk combines two things we’re passionate about at We Can Kick It—football and making a difference,” Adrian said. “We know it’ll be a tough day, but every step we take will help fund football programmes for children affected by cancer. We’re calling on football fans, Londoners, and everyone who believes in our cause to support us by donating or cheering us on.”
Founded by Adrian in 2018 after his own cancer diagnosis, We Can Kick It provides free football workshops and experiences to children impacted by cancer. The charity gained UK status in 2024 after delivering successful programmes in the USA, where Adrian’s efforts earned him an MBE in the 2021 Queen’s Birthday Honours.
Paul O’Callaghan, a trustee of the UK branch of the charity, will also join the walk. He said, “As someone who has watched the incredible impact Adrian and We Can Kick It have had on children in the USA, I’m thrilled to help bring this programme to the UK, arguably the home of football. By combining the beautiful game with a beautiful mission, we can help change the lives of children who’ve faced so much already.”
Among the young participants is Ravi Adelekan, who was diagnosed with a brain tumour at six years old. Despite his ongoing challenges, Ravi has achieved remarkable milestones, including performing on Britain’s Got Talent and winning the Pride of Britain Child of Courage Award.
Supporters can follow the journey through live updates on the charity’s Instagram page (@WeCanKickIt) and donate at www.justgiving.com/page/wckiukwalk.
Chris Mitchell is the founder and editor of Harrow Online, Harrow’s leading local news platform.
He launched Harrow Online in 2010 as a Facebook page sharing local news and information. Since then, it has grown into a trusted source for breaking news, crime, council decisions, planning, transport, business and community stories across the borough.
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