On 27th September I will be tackling my first marathon, running 42km in memory of my dear friend Claire, who sadly passed away on 12 May 2025 aged 42.

Claire was diagnosed with incurable cancer in her uterus – leiomyosarcoma - in 2023, two years after first raising her symptoms and concerns with her GP. Initially being diagnosed with IBS, she faced delays and misdiagnosis at every turn.

Claire’s Campaign is focused on ensuring policy change through giving a platform to ‘unheard’ women with gynaecological cancer. It aims to amplify the voices of women who have felt ignored and let down by the system, leading to misdiagnosis, inadequate care, and tragic outcomes, and campaigning to change the culture of dismissing women’s voices in healthcare settings.

Claire’s Campaign will also shine a light on staff shortages and capacity challenges within the Welsh NHS, which have contributed to shocking waiting times experienced by women with gynaecological cancer, some of the longest of all cancer types in Wales.

When I told Claire I would be running not only my first marathon but making it a trail one, she told me I was mad, but if I can play some small part in continuing her legacy through supporting this vital campaign it will be worth all the pain and shin splints.

All donations will be gratefully received and go to Tenovus Cancer Care and will used to deliver on the aims of Claire’s Campaign.