I am doing this walk in memory of Laura, and the charities that have helped us throughout what has been a very difficult time,” said Jonathan James. “She gave everything, especially to our children, Thomas and Isabelle, and to the students she taught at Roundhay School. This is about love, grief, remembrance, gratitude and turning pain into purpose, one step at a time.
Jon’s story
Former Commando and current NHS employee Jonathan James will undertake a solo, unsupported National Three Peaks challenge in honour of his late wife, Laura James who passed away in December 2024 after a courageous battle with cancer. The 17-day endurance trek aims to raise funds for St Gemma’s Hospice, which provided Laura’s end-of-life care, and Combat Stress, who provide vital services in support of servicemen and women.
This 777km (480-mile) expedition includes summiting Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), Scafell Pike, and Ben Nevis, with over 15,000 metres of total ascent, the equivalent of climbing both Everest and K2. It begins on 16 August 2025, following a memorial service at the National Memorial Arboretum on the 15th of August 25, and concludes at the Commando Memorial on the 2nd of September 2025, which will also mark the officially recognised, 80th anniversary of the end of WWII.
The challenge will be completely self-supported, meaning Jonathan will carry all his equipment, purchasing supplies en-route, and travel alone (less for people who are having a Forest Gump moment!). The route will take him through North Wales, the Lake District, Scotland, and along paths including the Cumbria Way and the West Highland Way.
The original March for Nations expedition was postponed following Laura’s passing. Co-founder Wesley Hazley will now lead a Laura James Memorial Charity Fundraiser on the 3rd of October 2025 at the Royal Armouries, Leeds.
This powerful journey aims to raise funds for hospice services and veterans’ mental health whilst also honouring a life defined by compassion, strength, and love.
If you’d like to sponsor Jon to take on this incredible challenge in memory of Laura, you can do so at https://www.gofundme.com/f/laura-james-memorial-fundraiser