🎽 I’m thrilled to announce that I’ll be running the TCS 2025 London Marathon as part of #TeamBowelCancerUK!

"Alex, you have stage 3 rectal cancer." That’s not what you expect to hear at 38 years old, married, and with two young boys. In June 2022, my life was turned upside down. It all started with a sudden onset of blood in my poo, a change in bowel habits (more frequent and varying consistency), increased fatigue, and a dull ache in my lower back. My mum was also diagnosed with stage 3 rectal cancer at 47, so I knew the signs and immediately contacted my GP. A FIT test, fast-track colonoscopy, MRI, and CT scan confirmed my fears—I had stage 3 rectal cancer and would need surgery.

The tumour was removed through open surgery, and I lived with a temporary ileostomy bag before undergoing stoma reversal surgery later that year. While the surgeries were successful, my journey wasn’t over. I faced two major bowel obstructions, including one that required life-saving surgery. Despite the challenges—three surgeries, a bag, and two major complications—I am incredibly grateful to now be cancer-free, back at work, and thriving.

This experience tested my body, my mind, and my family’s strength. But it’s also been a journey of growth and resilience. Running became a way to heal—both physically and emotionally. It gave me time to think, push myself, and create balance. I never imagined running the London Marathon would be part of my story, but I’m excited to take on this challenge and raise funds for a cause that means so much to me.

💙 Why I’m running for Bowel Cancer UK

Bowel Cancer UK has been an incredible source of support throughout my journey. They work tirelessly to save lives and improve the quality of life for those affected by bowel cancer. Their mission is urgent:

• Every 15 minutes, someone is diagnosed with bowel cancer. That’s around 44,000 people annually—120 people every day.

• Bowel cancer is the UK’s second-biggest cancer killer.

With targeted research, education, support for patients and families, and campaigns for early diagnosis, Bowel Cancer UK is driving change.

💡 Your support can make a difference:

• £10 could deliver an awareness talk.

• £25 could fund an hour’s expert nurse support through the "Ask the Nurse" service.

• £50 could help advance policy work to improve bowel screening.

Let’s create a future where nobody dies of bowel cancer.

My training is well underway, having run a half marathon in September and ready to take on the winter long runs! Thank you for any donations you are able to make as I take on 26.2 miles for this amazing charity. Together, we can change lives.

🏃‍♂️ Thank you for your support!