I think most of you know my story but here it is for anyone who doesn't.
Following diagnosis of bowel cancer in Sep 2017, I had major surgery to remove part of my colon, bladder, some upper intestine, and a complete hysterectomy. I was in hospital for 4 weeks and was left with two permanent stoma - a colostomy and a urostomy. I then had 6 months of chemotherapy.
I used walking as a way of getting back to heath and fitness and took part in a charity event in June 2018. I walked 50km of the Cotswold Way and raised just under £2,500 for Bowel Cancer UK. A huge thanks to everyone who supported me! Following that I started to run again and I have been running regularly (on and off) for the last 18 months.
So I thought it was time for a new challenge! I have picked the London Landmarks Half Marathon which is on 29 March and I will be raising money for Bowel Cancer UK again. I know it is not long since many of you very kindly donated to Bowel Cancer UK on my behalf, but if you are able to donate a small amount again I would be extremely grateful.
I have not run a half marathon before. The furthest distance I have run previously is 10 miles and this will be 13 miles, so I will be working on increasing my distances over the next few months!
If you are able to sponsor me, you will be helping the charity continue its life-saving work of championing early diagnosis; improving treatment and care; and enabling research into bowel cancer.
As well as supporting Bowel Cancer UK in its vital work, I want to remind you all not to ignore any symptoms! If I had discovered the problem earlier then I would not have needed such major surgery and would not have the life-changing effects of two stomas. So please do go to your GP if you have any changes in bowel habits that are concerning! https://www.bowelcanceruk.org.uk/about-bowel-cancer/symptoms/
Meanwhile please sponsor me to raise funds for this fantastic charity!!
Thank you very much
Rebecca
xxxxx