Story
Cancer Support UK provides practical and emotional support to children and adults, living with cancer, both during and after their treatment period. We support people with all kinds of cancer across the UK. Our Mission is to create a kinder world for everyone impacted by cancer.
My Story
On the 4th June 2024 after feeling unwell for several months, I was diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma, a rare type of cancer that develops in the lymphatic system. A large mass was discovered on my chest which was affecting my breathing. This was a huge shock to myself, family and friends as I’d always been a very active person and felt I’d always looked after myself – however as we know cancer doesn’t discriminate!
Within days of the diagnosis, I was admitted to Lincoln County Hospital for a biopsy and just 3 days later I was booked in for my first chemotherapy treatment. Over the course of the next 6 weeks I was to undertake an intense course of chemo, spending most of my time back and forth to Lincoln Chemotherapy suite (Ingham Ward). I do need to say how amazing everybody at Lincoln hospital were, in particular the Haematology team, the care, attention and support I received was brilliant. My consultant couldn’t have been better matched to me even if I’d have hand-picked her myself, she always told me it straight with kindness and compassion.
On the 18th July, after a mid-treatment scan, I was told I was in complete metabolic response – I’ll never forget the moment my consultant told me “It’s gone”. After a few more weeks completing my course of chemotherapy, in early September I was done! 3 weeks later I returned to work.
I been a runner for about 13 years, starting my journey when a friend recommended Parkrun – that’s it I was hooked. Over the course of the last few years I’ve completed an ultra-marathon, 7 marathons (London 3 times) and several half marathons. I truly believe that running saved my life. I believe it was the reason that my body responded so well to treatment and meant I could beat cancer and return to work in the space of 4 months. Throughout my treatment I continuously pestered my consultant asking her when I could go back out running. The day she said she was happy I could resume running I got myself back on the treadmill. By the end of 2024 I had managed to get myself back to Parkrun and build up my distance to 7 miles.
The Jane Tomlinson’s Run for All Lincoln half marathon has since the turn of 2025 been my goal of mine. It just so happens that the date would mark just over a year since I completed my final chemotherapy session. Although I’ve done the distance many times in the past and even longer distances, I think this may well be my biggest running challenge to date. Beating cancer and getting myself back to a position where I can once again do what I love, that helped me so much, in my hometown, will be my proudest running achievement.