I was sat having a coffee with my wife in town when John passed by outside the window with his familiar green wig and money raising pram. She informed me that “he is absolutely amazing”. I nipped out and asked if I could photograph and interview him for this blog. He graciously agreed.
On meeting up with him a couple of weeks later there are a few things that strike me about him. What he is achieving is exceptional – raising such a large sum of money from everyday donations of the people he meets whilst walking the streets. What also strikes me is his incredible warmth, good humour and gratitude. Nearly every donation was greeted with a genuine hearty “thank you”, a handshake and then often followed up with some banter (“keep taking those pills”) or asking how they are doing. Most striking of all is the relationship, kindness and connection that there is between him and probably thousands of people.
What a lesson in alchemy. Finding a way of gleaning some good out of loss and sadness. His drive, passion and cheerful spirit are an inspiration. Please consider throwing some coins in his bucket if you see him out and about and you can also make a donation here.
What’s your story of getting into raising money for MacMillan?
I lost my missus to cancer in ’92. Since then I have been trying to raise a million for Macmillan. I’m about halfway at the moment. I used to be a race walker. I did a lot of long distance walks for various charities. But now I’m inspired to raise a million for Macmillan.
What do you love about it?
I hear some great stories. Really inspirational. I met this little lass four years ago. I still get upset when I think about it. I was going up a hill with (with the money raising pram) when a car stopped. It was chucking it down with snow. There was a little girl sat in the back of the car. She said “Can I put some money in your bucket Mr Green Man?” I could see she was very poorly. I gave her a high five and thanked her for the money and started walking back up the hill. Ten yards up the hill her dad jumped out the car and ran after me. He was crying, no he was sobbing. He told me that his little girl had leukemia. Over the next few weeks I couldn’t get the little lass’s face out of my mind. A few months later the dad found me and came up to me. “You’ll not remember me – but you talked to my daughter. I wanted to thank you – she was talking about you for the next three months!” Sadly the little girl had died but her face keeps me going – it’s my inspiration.
What’s hardest about it?
As much as I hear some inspiring stories there are also some terrible stories. I can’t make things better for people – I find that hard. I can pass on the Macmillan help line number but I can’t give people what they need.
How would you sum up what you do in three words?
I’ll get the million! Well that’s four…. What about wonderful Sheffield people. Actually though all over the country the people have been so supportive.
Anytime when you thought about giving up?
No – it doesn’t matter how bad I might feel, I’ll never give up.
A particular moment of joy/a high?
When radio Sheffield walked with me and Rony Robinson was interviewing me – he asked me about the most inspiring people I’ve met. I thought about the queen (that was very special) – but just then an old lady came up and put some money in the bucket. I said “her there”. They are the most inspiring people. Sometimes people who have so little money come up and give what they can. Or maybe a down and out comes and puts some money in the bucket. You can’t put that into words.
Is there anything you are particularly looking forward to?
Getting the million!
Also I’m going to do a 1000 races. I’ve done 962 so far. I’m hoping my 1000th will be a Mike Tomlinson race. He’s a tremendous fellow and has done so much since Jane died. On my 950th race he presented me with a medal which meant a lot.
What are you most proud of?
Being in a race and finishing it – that makes me very proud. There are no losers in a race.
Favourite quote and/or piece of advice you’ve been given that has helped/inspired you on your way?
“If I can’t feel the wooden sides when I wake up then I’m alright.”
