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Support our Purplewave fundraisers!

03 Apr 2025

This May, the University of Manchester community will come together for the Purplewave, the University’s official entry in the AJ Bell Great Manchester 10K.

Purple wave

Purplewave fundraisers are making a real impact by supporting two important causes: life-changing cancer research here at The University of Manchester, and support for Manchester students.  

Research shows that helping others is associated with increased feelings of wellbeing and there are many more positives aspects of giving back: charitable giving can foster a sense of connection with others and a feeling of belonging withing a community. Giving back to our community or a wider world cause that is in need can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment.  

Many of our fundraisers have a personal connection to the cause they are championing. Here are a few of their stories.  

Jed, Undergraduate student

I lost my mam, Angela, to cancer in August 2023. I ran a 5K in the summer just gone but want to go further this year. By running in the Purplewave 10K I hope to embody the strength my mam showed throughout her fight and her life. 

You taking the time to read this really means a lot. Thank you. 

Alejandro, Senior Lecturer (Associate Professor) in Circular Economy and Life Cycle Sustainability Assessment 

Over the past few years, both of my parents were diagnosed with cancer. It was a rough time, but thanks to the amazing medical care they received, and all the advances in research, they both pulled through. 

Running with the Purplewave feels like my own personal way of saying thank you. Every step I take reminds me of how grateful I am for the people and breakthroughs that meant my parents are still here. It’s my small way of giving back. 

Stephen, Clinical Lecturer, Division of Dentistry 

I am enthusiastic, albeit a slow, runner. Think weekly Park Runs, various 10Ks and a couple of ultra-marathons. Good for boasting, bad for my hip joints. I didn’t want to pass up the opportunity to add the Purplewave 10K to that list, especially when I saw I could fundraise to support students here at the University.  

I work with students every day in my role. I would hate any of them to feel they could no longer stay at the University due to financial difficulties.  No one should give up their studies because they can no longer afford to attend university. This is why I’m fundraising to support the students who need it most.  

Arlo, Undergraduate student  

I believe that everyone should have the opportunity to access higher education. University brings so many great experiences and opportunities. But university can also be a massive financial challenge for many. I don’t believe this should be the case.  

I started running during my exchange year. I thought taking part in the Purplewave 10K, and fundraising to support Manchester students, would be a great way to support other students who may otherwise not be able to access these opportunities. 

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