16 October 2025
Madeline Jones raised $42,000 for prostate cancer research in memory of her dad
When Madeline Jones laced up her runners for The Long Run this year, she did so with a heavy heart and a powerful purpose. Only months earlier, Madeline had lost her beloved father, Steven, to prostate cancer.
“This was my sixth Long Run, but the first without my Dad,” Ms Jones said.
“It was incredibly hard, but it was meaningful. I wanted to honour him and keep sharing his story.”
Before Steven passed away, they shared one final conversation about her ongoing commitment to the cause.
“I told him I’d keep raising funds and awareness. He said he’d love that to be his legacy,” Ms Jones said.
Determined to honour that promise, Ms Jones set an ambitious goal: to raise $52,000 in tribute to her father’s age at diagnosis.
“I honestly didn’t think I’d get anywhere near it, but people just kept giving — friends, family, colleagues, even strangers who’d seen my posts,” Ms Jones added.
By the end of September, she had raised over $42,000, becoming The Long Run’s top individual fundraiser for 2025.
Her efforts inspired thousands across Australia and helped fund vital research, support services, and awareness initiatives through Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA).
During The Long Run, Ms Jones said she met people who had lost their husbands, fathers, or friends, and others who were in remission or currently battling prostate cancer.
“It opened up so many conversations. People shared their stories with me, and that really kept me going,” Ms Jones added.
To raise funds, Ms Jones organised a school morning tea, her local Lions Club hosted a sausage sizzle, and she created posters with QR codes displayed in local cafés.
“I love making things like that, it’s such an easy way to get people talking,” she added.
Her dedication has also inspired new ideas for future fundraisers.
As for next year, Ms Jones already has her sights set on going further. “I did 72km this year, but next year I want to take on an even bigger challenge,” she said.
“Whether that’s doubling the distance or hosting more community events, I just want to keep pushing myself and for my Dad.”
Madeline’s 5 Fundraising Tips
- Set a personal goal with meaning. Madeline’s $52,000 target reflected her Dad’s age at diagnosis. It helped make every step count.
- Share your story openly and regularly. Honest and heartfelt updates spark genuine connections and support.
- Engage your workplace. Madeline’s school morning tea raised $1,500 and started life-saving conversations.
- Think local. Posters with QR codes at cafés and shops can inspire strangers to donate and raise further awareness.
- Use special dates. Promote on Double Donation Day or anniversaries to boost engagement and momentum.
