Mark's story

In July 2023 I decided that I needed to lose quite a bit of weight. I turned to a good friend (Coach Ken) for some advice and support. That quickly turned into more than just a regular diet - a total lifestyle reboot. After losing 10.4kg (1st 9 lbs) in the first 7 weeks, it was time to turn up the heat and step foot inside a gym for the first time in my life on September 5th 2023. 12 months later I took part in and successfully completed my first half marathon - The Great North Run - in 2hrs 22mins 26secs.

I have created a website dedicated to tracking my preparation for my second Great North Run, and other events I am taking part in throughout the year, including the Great Manchester 10K in May, and Blackpool Night Run in August.

https://www.gnr2025.co.uk

In case you hadn't already guessed... I'm taking part in the Great North Run to raise money for Bowel Cancer UK. They're the UK's leading bowel cancer charity and are determined to save lives and improve the quality of life of everyone affected by bowel cancer.

Back in November 2017 my dad was diagnosed with Bowel Cancer. He received amazing treatment at the Royal Lancaster Infirmary under the care of Tom Raymond within four weeks of diagnosis and has made a full recovery. Seven years on he remains cancer free.

Bowel cancer is the UK's second biggest cancer killer with over 16,000 people dying annually of a disease that is preventable, treatable and curable. Im determined to help Bowel Cancer UK to change that. The money you donate will help to provide support and information to patients and their families, enable them to fund and support research into bowel cancer and to campaign for early diagnosis and best treatment and care for all.