A tragic and heart-wrenching incident occurred on Father’s Day as a father of two passed away from bowel cancer just five months after being diagnosed, despite displaying “minimal symptoms”. Toby, a 43-year-old father, was a development manager at Marks and Spencer and resided in Windsor, Berkshire with his family. His wife, Ali Bevans, 42, revealed that Toby had very few signs of trouble when he was diagnosed with stage 4 bowel cancer in January 2024, shocking the entire family. Normally, symptoms of bowel cancer include blood in stools, changes in bowel habits, and weight loss, but Toby had only been feeling fatigued, with backache and chest pain following a bout of flu.
After the devastating diagnosis, Toby underwent rounds of chemotherapy and radiotherapy in hopes of battling the disease. However, by May 2024, doctors delivered the heartbreaking news to Ali and Toby that there were no further treatment options available. Tragically, Toby passed away peacefully at home on Father’s Day, June 16, 2024. Despite the immense grief and loss, Ali was determined to honour Toby’s memory by taking on a big challenge – running the 2025 TCS London Marathon. She initiated a JustGiving page to raise funds for Bowel Cancer UK, with overwhelming support pouring in from friends, family, and colleagues, resulting in over £85,000 in donations.
Ali and Toby’s love story started at university, got married in 2011, and welcomed their two children, Freddie and Tilda. Describing Toby as a loving and lively person, Ali recounted how Toby started experiencing tiredness and back pain towards the end of 2023. However, it was only during a flu episode in December 2023 that Toby’s symptoms worsened, prompting him to seek medical attention. Subsequent tests revealed the devastating diagnosis of stage 4 bowel cancer that had spread to his liver and bones, leaving the family shattered.
Navigating through the whirlwind of emotions that followed Toby’s diagnosis, Ali shared that they found solace in cherishing moments together and finding joy in small everyday occurrences. Despite the grim prognosis, Ali expressed her determination to make Toby’s final days as comfortable as possible, with the unwavering support of Thames Hospice. As Toby’s condition deteriorated in May 2024, and treatment options ran out, Ali focused on providing him with care and comfort in his final moments.
The overwhelming response from the community, with donations exceeding expectations and loved ones rallying to support Ali and the children, highlighted the impact Toby had on those around him. Moreover, the fundraising efforts extended beyond the marathon, showcasing a community united in their grief and determination to advocate for bowel cancer awareness. Ali’s dedication to honouring Toby’s memory through fundraising and awareness campaigns serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience and strength found in the face of adversity.
As Ali prepares to participate in the London Marathon, the outpouring of support and generosity continues to uplift her spirits. She remains steadfast in her commitment to raising awareness about bowel cancer and hopes that Toby’s story will prevent other families from enduring similar hardships. With a fundraising target of £100,000 in sight, Ali emphasises the importance of seizing every moment and living life to the fullest, echoing Toby’s belief that “life is a gift,” to be treasured and celebrated. The legacy of Toby’s spirit lives on through Ali’s unwavering dedication to making a positive impact and honouring his memory in a meaningful way.