Throughout February I will be running 50 miles for Oesophageal cancer month. This is my way of raising awareness and funds for Heartburn Cancer UK who help to support individuals diagnosed with this type of cancer.

I want to raise awareness of oesophageal cancer, as early diagnosis could save someone’s life. Cancer of the oesophagus is growing rapidly in incidence across the UK and is currently the seventh biggest cancer killer. Despite the best modern treatments, survival rates are appalling. This is partly due to diagnosis often being made when the condition is too advanced to be treated; early symptoms are few and are often ignored.

The most common symptoms of cancer of the oesophagus include but are not limited to:

- Worsening or persistent indigestion or heartburn.

- Hiccups and burping.

- Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) or food sticking.

- Weight loss without trying.

- Chest pain, pressure or burning.

- Feeling or being sick.

- Coughing or hoarse voice.

- Regurgitation (food coming back into your mouth).

- Acid taste in mouth.

Do not ignore persistent heartburn. If it lasts more than 3 weeks, see your GP.

If you are able to spare any amount, however small, I would be very grateful for any donations you can make to support a charity very close to our hearts. I haven’t ran for years and feel quite unfit, so this should be interesting! I will be tracking my runs on Strava throughout the month. I am planning on bigger challenges to fundraise in the future.

Thank you so much

Danielle x