Beth Nicholson

Why World Cancer Research Fund?

Every day around 1,100 people will hear the words ‘you have cancer’. Over 420 of these cases could have been prevented, that’s a staggering 155,000 people every year. World Cancer Research Fund, are passionate about reducing this number.

From a personal perspective, I lost my mum to cancer in September 2015. This was after she battled (and beat) breast cancer but was then diagnosed with a brain tumor in early 2015. I was in Australia at the time and being the practical woman that my mum was, I received the news in a group email! My mum was a beacon of strength to everyone that met her, she was fit, active, healthy, incredibly caring, kind, resilient and positive minded. 

My mum is the reason I run. Every Saturday morning she used to knock on my door, asking if I wanted to join her for one of her (almost daily) runs. Despite my sometimes lack of energy and want to stay in bed, she would convince me that I would feel better for it and so (sometimes reluctantly) I'd force myself out - and of course she was right! Even now, when I find myself lacking in energy, I have my mum in my head and am very conscious of the privilege it is to be able to run outside and feel the beads of sweat rolling down my face (gross but somehow rewarding!).

More specifically, my mum was a massive advocate and fan of the marathon. It was be on the tv each year, meaning I was exposed to it from a young age and saw all of the world leading athletes striding away against the city backdrop. This is all what fuels my ambition to take part and raise money for WCRF. My mum was very active, very healthy and continued to exercise throughout her treatment (when she was able to) and she was the biggest advocate for keeping a healthy lifestyle. Similarly, if there is anything that research shows can do to help prevent facing this horrific illness, I want to play my part in making this happen.

I would appreciate any support you can give - small or large!