Jack to run in honour of ‘fearless’ mum who died of rare cancer

A woman who battled adversity all her life before passing away from a rare cancer will be honoured by her son, who will run the Royal Parks Half Marathon on Sunday.

Julia Rogers died from spindle cell sarcoma, an extremely rare type of cancer, in December 2022 at the age of 66. But she was a woman who defied the odds throughout her life.

She was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis in her youth and was told she would be in a wheelchair by the age of 40. She was also told she would never have children but ended up being a mother to four. One of her children, Jack Rogers from Wimbledon, is preparing to run in her honour this weekend.

In 2022, Julia, who had recently retired from her role as head of a global research firm, reported heart problems and pain in her abdomen. She was also having trouble eating properly. It was only when she had a blood test in October 2022 that doctors said she had a form of cancer.

As her health deteriorated rapidly, she was put on palliative care at a hospice in Hertfordshire. It was only the day before she died that her family was told she had spindle cell sarcoma in her abdomen.

There are less than 200 cases of spindle cell sarcoma diagnosed yearly in England – about 0.06 per cent of all cancers.

Jack, 31, said: “She was the toughest woman I have ever known. A lifetime of rheumatoid arthritis and she never complained. She raised four children and had a very successful career in the City. To the day she died, she didn’t once show fear. She was so stoical and was only concerned about those around her.”

Reflecting on Julia’s treatment, he said: “I understand because sarcoma is so rare, it’s difficult to diagnose, let alone at speed. However, at times it felt very difficult to be waiting for answers while seeing mum was so ill.”

Jack is taking part in the Royal Parks Half Marathon through central London for Sarcoma UK. He said: “I’m not a runner but thinking about my mum has given me the motivation. Even if it is only a small difference, I want this to help make a difference in someone else’s life.”

Jack has already raised more than £5,000. His employer, insurance firm Allied World, has pledged to match whatever sum its employees donate to Jack.

Sarcoma UK’s director of fundraising, Kerry Reeves-Kneip, said: “Julia Rogers’ story is a powerful reminder of the devastating impact of sarcoma and the urgent need for greater awareness and research. Like many sarcomas, spindle cell sarcoma is incredibly rare and often diagnosed too late.

“We’re deeply moved by Jack’s commitment to honour his mother’s memory. His efforts raise crucial funds for sarcoma research and help shine a light on these rare cancers.”

To donate to Jack, go to https://www.justgiving.com/page/jack-rogers-isrunningforsarcoma

Pictured top: Jack (second left) with his mum Julia and his siblings (Picture: Jack Rogers)