In November 2021 my beautiful friend Laura, then 35, was given the devastating news that she has a rare form of incurable, and life limiting cancer called metastatic pheochromocytoma. With a 3 year old daughter (Felicity), pallative treatment is for now prolonging her life. One year and one full cycle of radiotherapy after her diagnosis, December 2022 brought the positive news that the treatment had stabilised Laura’s cancer, and to date continues to do so. Regrettably however, Laura is currently only permitted one further cycle of intravenous radiation in her lifetime due to its non-localised and invasive nature - and alternative treatments are lacking. 

Despite a scary prognosis, Laura has remained the most incredibly positive and vibrant person - choosing to adopt a positive attitude everyday to be the best person, and best Mummy possible. Her cancer being adrenaline fuelled prevents her from undertaking many challenges, but despite this Laura set herself the target to walk 10,000 steps everyday in March for cancer research and succeeded in raising £2,230 - not easy with health problems, a full time job and toddler! She walked morning, lunch and night despite the wind, rain, and hail; and I know her supporters are so incredibly proud of her. 

Without charities like the Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) Laura wouldn’t be where she is now, but rare cancers in particular often don’t get the funding for research that they need. So in Laura’s name I’m so excited to continue her efforts and run the London Marathon 2024 for the ICR - raising money in support of new research and future treatments with the aim of giving Laura more time with her husband Elliot, her family, and to watch Felicity grow. 

I’ve never tackled anything close to this distance before and anyone who knows me knows how fair weathered I am, so training throughout winter is going to be a challenge in itself - but I’m ready to embrace the elements! 

So for Laura, and all those close to our hearts battling, or who have battled cancer - anything you can give to facilitate ongoing research would be greatly appreciated. Thank-you! 

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