Jacqueline James will dedicate her debut Gold Coast Airport Marathon to her best friend’s eight-year-old son who passed away in 2011 after an extensive battle with cancer.

The Dapto, New South Wales local has started raising funds and awareness for the charity Camp Quality who cared for Hamish Andrews, his family and friends during his treatment.

The 41-year-old said Camp Quality provided Hamish and his family ongoing support throughout the duration of his illness and she now hopes to raise $1000 for the charity.

“They were able to provide respite for each member of the family as needed and developed lifelong relationships,” Jacqueline said.

“Now, in Hamish’s memory, the family continues to support this charity that helped them so much and I wish to continue this by dedicating my Gold Coast Airport Marathon journey to raising money for them.”

Jacqueline’s journey to the Gold Coast Airport Marathon began in April last year after a group of 30 like-minded runners set the 42.195km challenge in an effort to lose weight.

She had never run more than one kilometre before last year’s event but is now feeling confident she can complete the distance after losing 50 kilograms.

“Everyone in the group have lost or are well on their way to losing 30 kilograms or more,” Jacqueline said.

“They are coming to the Gold Coast from all over the country to run together and cheer others in various races.”

Jacqueline is taking a unique approach to fundraising by personally donating 25 cents for every kilometre she runs during her 32-week training program and encourages supporters to do the same for the marathon.

“I challenge my supporters to donate at least 25c for each kilometre of the Gold Coast Airport Marathon which would equate to just $10.50,” Jacqueline said.

“I’ve got a feeling this approach will get my total up fairly quickly and I’ll be at my goal total before I know it.”

If you would like to support Jacqueline please visit her Everyday Hero page.

Follow her Gold Coast Airport Marathon training journey via Jacque’s Road to Marathon

For more information visit www.goldcoastmarathon.com.au.