Couple who both have relatives with cancer raise £2,000 for charity running London Marathon
A couple are taking on the London Marathon to raise vital funds for the world-leading, cancer research institute.
Jess Calam and Danny Radis, from Sternhold Avenue in Balham, will be taking on the London Marathon together on Sunday to show support for two of their family members currently receiving treatment for cancer.
Jess, 27, and Danny, 34, are running the marathon to raise funds for The Institute of Cancer Research, London (ICR), the world-leading research institute and charity.
The couple is running to support Danny’s mum who is currently having treatment for breast cancer, and Jess’ grandad who is receiving immunotherapy for mesothelioma.
Jess, a project manager with a digital agency, said: “I’m close to my grandad and it’s believed that he had exposure to asbestos when he was a young boy, which is thought to be linked to his mesothelioma.
“Danny’s mum, who lives in Australia, has been battling with cancer for a few years now.
“Because it’s an issue that’s very personal to us both, we wanted to take part in a challenge that not only raised funds but also awareness of cancer.
“It’s not uncommon to be told a family member or loved one has this unthinkable disease.”
The couple are both runners and Danny has run a marathon before, but for Jess this will be her first.
Jess said: “I took up running in lockdown and I’ve never run this far before.
“Danny is faster than me, so although we’ll start together on London Marathon day, I think he’ll finish before me.
“He’s taught me about the importance of slowing down rather than stopping when I feel like I’ve reached my limit. So above all else, I just need to make sure I don’t stop!
“I’m nervous that we’re now in race week, I just want to get it done.”
The couple has so far raised almost £2,000 for the ICR.
Lannah Carbonilla, head of supporter engagement at ICR London, said: “We’re really grateful to have the support of Jess and Danny, and all of the #teamICR runners at this year’s TCS London Marathon.
“We hope that Jess, Danny and all our runners will be spurred on by the knowledge that they’re helping to make a difference for people affected by cancer up and down the country.”
To support Jess and Danny please donate on their fundraising page: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Jess-and-Danny
Pictured top: Jess and Danny training for the marathon (Picture: Jess Calam)
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