64-year-old runner from Doncaster to take on London Marathon for Weston Park Cancer Charity
Retired NHS worker Nick is raising money to thank the hospital that cared for him after his cancer diagnosis
This April, 64-year-old Nick from Doncaster will run the London Marathon – just four years after being diagnosed with oesophageal cancer.
“My first reaction when I found out I had a place was…crikey!” said Nick. “It took me a couple of days to decide whether or not to go for it. But I committed and realised it would be a good way to raise a few bob for Weston Park Cancer Charity.”
Nick was diagnosed with oesophageal cancer in May 2021. He went through 16 weeks of chemotherapy at Weston Park Cancer Centre and an operation at the Northern General.
“Those weeks of chemotherapy were so pivotal in my treatment plan,” said Nick. “I’ll never forget the care I received. It’s strange, but during those weeks I fell in love with the hospital in a way. After two or three sessions you almost become part of the place.
“For the last 20 years of my career I’ve worked in procurement for the NHS. I know that my treatment would have cost a fortune, and I really want to give a little bit of that money back.”
Nick is now hard at work, training for the biggest race of his life. The money he raises will help Weston Park Cancer Charity to fund vital research, offer life-changing support services, and enhance treatments at the hospital.
“I was 62 when I started my recovery,” said Nick. “I could have just written myself off and decided to take things steady. But I have to do something - I just can’t sit still.
“Over the next five months I’m going to have to step my game up and train properly. My daughter has made me a running plan and set up my fundraising page. I’d love to raise over a thousand pounds, but let’s see how we get on.
“I imagine the day itself is going to be pretty emotional. My daughter is also going to be running, and I’ll have family and friends in the crowd supporting me.
“I really do have to push myself to get out there and train. But I can’t stop thinking about running down The Mall and seeing the finish line. I can’t wait to experience that huge sense of achievement.”
You can support Nick on his marathon fundraising journey via his Just Giving page.
If you would like to take part in a running challenge for Weston Park Cancer Charity visit www.westonpark.org.uk/events
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