Former Seagulls’ striker, and PFA chief, to run London Marathon for Leukaemia Care in memory of father

Molango, who famously scored 12 seconds into his Albion debut away to Reading in 2004, runs in memory of his father, Moly Molango, who passed away in May 2025 following a five year battle with blood cancer.

Moly Molango was first diagnosed with multiple myeloma after initially experiencing symptoms including severe back pain and extreme fatigue. Following an initial misdiagnosis, he underwent treatment including an autologous stem cell transplant, where his own cells were used.

After a period of recovery, the disease returned and developed into leukaemia. This time, he required a donor stem cell transplant. With no fully suitable donor available, Maheta stepped forward as a partial match.

Describing the experience, Maheta said: “My father’s journey with blood cancer changed everything for our family. What you realise very quickly is that it’s not just the patient who is affected - it’s everyone around them.

“When he needed a donor, I was able to step in. The process today is safe and straightforward, involving injections to stimulate stem cells and then a procedure similar to dialysis. I want more people to understand that, because there is a real shortage of donors - especially for people with African heritage.”

Despite the transplant and further treatment, including additional cell therapies, Moly’s condition worsened. He became seriously ill around Easter 2025 and sadly passed away within a month.

Maheta says the experience has shaped his decision to run and to advocate for greater awareness of both blood cancer and stem cell donation.

“I’m running for my father, but also to help others going through the same journey. There is a critical need for more stem cell donors, particularly from underrepresented backgrounds. If sharing my story encourages even one more person to register, it’s worth it.”

He was drawn to Leukaemia Care because of the charity’s holistic approach to supporting not just patients, but their families too. “What stood out to me was the level of support they provide beyond treatment - the emotional, logistical and financial help.

“During my father’s illness, we were fortunate to be able to support him as a family, but not everyone has that. That’s where charities like Leukaemia Care make such a difference.”

Maheta has already made a strong start with fundraising, surpassing his initial £2,000 target within a day of sharing his challenge on LinkedIn. He has since raised his goal to £10,000 and has committed to personally covering any shortfall if needed.

While balancing the demands of leading the PFA, he has embraced the challenge of marathon training - despite being new to long-distance running.

“This will be my first marathon, and I wanted it to be for something meaningful. In many ways, the journey through leukaemia is like a marathon - it requires resilience, persistence, and support from others. It doesn’t matter how long it takes, what matters is continuing to move forward.”

Colin Dyer, chief executive of Leukaemia Care, said: “We are incredibly grateful to Maheta for taking on the London Marathon in memory of his father. His story highlights not only the impact of blood cancer but also the urgent need for more stem cell donors.

“By sharing his experience, Maheta is helping to raise awareness and potentially save lives, while also supporting our work providing vital care and guidance to families affected by leukaemia. We wish him well on the day, and will be cheering him along from the sides”

Funds raised through Maheta’s challenge will support Leukaemia Care’s work providing information, advocacy and emotional support to people living with blood cancer and their loved ones across the UK.

To support Maheta’s marathon challenge, visit: https://2026tcslondonmarathon.enthuse.com/pf/maheta-molango