When I think about running, I primarily think about the fact that it was whilst I was running that I started this whole journey and discovered I had a glioblastoma, and that is a shame as running has been such a hugely positive part of my life for the past few years.
I began running properly in around 2021, after I ‘retired’ from playing football. I had always been fit and healthy and wanted to continue that.
At first I was just going out for runs by myself (and wondering why I wasn’t getting any quicker), then at the end of 2022 I found Scrambled Leggs, a running group local to me in Kent and started going to its weekly Monday night sessions. Then I followed this up later in 2023 by joining Paddock Wood Athletics Club.
Not only did I get faster and fitter, I made a fantastic group of new friends, who have provided me with so much support since my diagnosis.
Whilst my seizure and subsequent diagnosis and treatment for glioblastoma has slowed down my running, both in volume and in speed (as shown by the screenshot below (the line is the last full week before I had the seizure), it hasn’t stopped it!
For me keeping as active as possible is important both physically and mentally in fighting this disease. Every time I put my trainers on and go out for a run I notch it up as one for me in my battle against cancer. It is also important socially to see friends who always lift my spirits.
I am immensely grateful to everyone in my running friend circle, I have had so much support from everyone, and intend to keep running for a while longer yet! (That said I cannot wait to get into the spring, and a bit more warmth and light!)
