Flash Quotes: The Running Show

We caught up with a few of the first participants through the door, to hear how they’re feeling ahead of Marathon Day. 

“I lost my dad in November 2022 to pancreatic cancer. It was really sudden; he was diagnosed and then within a month he had passed away and before then was completely fit and healthy.  

“Before then I knew absolutely nothing about pancreatic cancer. It was only afterwards learning about the horrific statistics, more than 50% of people who are diagnosed die within three months. I never knew that and how underfunded it is and how much they really need the funding to better research for early detection. 

“I got the email to say that Pancreatic Cancer UK was the Charity of the Year and thought, ‘Why not?’ Training has gone really well; I was not a runner before, but I am up to 99 runs now and the London Marathon will be my 100th run. 

“I want to soak up the atmosphere, I have heard that the atmosphere is amazing, and I’ve got friends and family who are going to be at different cheer points. 

“I have raised £4,800 so far and am hoping to reach the £5,000 target. We need the earlier detection because when pancreatic cancer is diagnosed very often it's too late; when it spreads there are very limited treatments available. We really do need to get that breath test into GPs so people can be diagnosed earlier and then the treatment options are better.” 

“I lost my Dad 10 years ago this year to pancreatic cancer, so my aim was to do something big to raise money and kind of spread awareness and also something in memory of him after 10 years. When I heard that Pancreatic Cancer UK was Charity of the Year for the marathon, that was my key to sign up and take on the test for the second time, as I did it seven years ago for the charity as well. 

“The day is always amazing and that’s what I am looking forward to – and the Finish Line! The charity is incredible; it is all so personal, and they always touch base with you to check how you are doing. We’ve got really good support among the group taking part this year, so we can always message each other. That’s also what has made it really special, as you feel like you’re part of a team: you’re not just doing it for yourself you are doing it for everyone who has gone through this.  

“I am up to over £5,000 and hoping to get a bit more on the day and after I’ve finished. My Dad was someone who was diagnosed too late, like most people with this cancer, it had already spread by the time we realised. This breath test they are developing, if we can catch people early it gives people a chance for a cure and treatment rather than being told it has already spread and there is nothing they can do.” 

Jasmin, 50, said: “This will be my fifth Major and I just have Tokyo left. I am running for an amazing charity called Street Child. I just want to take in the atmosphere and be a part of this exciting event. It is emotional and I am very excited. I want to take in the city and be in the moment.” 

Joseph, 48, said: “This will be my fifth Major, and I will have Boston left, which will be a bit harder to get into. I think for us, running in general we love to stay healthy. But by us travelling around we are seeing different cultures, seeing different areas and how other parts of the world function. And to meet new people and speak to them.” 

“I am so nervous and excited! I started fundraising quite late because I had some injuries so wasn’t sure if I would be able to run but I am. So, I am going to go crazy this week fundraising. I am most looking forward to the atmosphere; everyone talks about the atmosphere, and finishing and that moment you get the medal. At the Running Show I want to get my name printed on my top, which I have booked, and just have a look round – get excited and try to buy some compression socks!” 

“I am feeling good and am excited. It is so well organised, there’s been so much on social media so I have seen a lot on my phone, but being here [at the Running Show] is really good. I have raised £1,800 and am just trying to get the last push from colleagues and friends. Training is going well; I’ve only had one setback with a calf injury but am feeling pretty good. I think I’ve got six or seven groups of friends and family dotted around the course, so I’m now trying to work out roughly where they will be and on what side of the road!”