A Burnham-On-Sea woman has completed the London Marathon in memory of her father, raising thousands of pounds for a charity close to her heart.
Charlotte Campbell from Burnham-On-Sea completed the London Marathon on Sunday in memory of her dad Malcolm Troy – and she raised over £6,750 for Pancreatic Cancer UK at the same time.
Mr Troy, also from Burnham-On-Sea, pictured right, was diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer in May 2015, by which time the cancer had already become so advanced it was untreatable. After a short and brutal battle with the disease, he passed away in December 2015.
Charlotte completed the marathon in 4 hours and 57 minutes which she says is inside her goal of five hours.
She thanked the “incredible support” of friends and family, who donated generously by sponsoring her.
Charlotte said: “When we found out that my Dad had pancreatic cancer, it was devastating for our family. My Dad was only 59 and a very fit man. He ran the London Marathon twice, ran multiple half marathons, climbed Everest, climbed Snowdon, regularly did the Burnham triathlon and more. So, I was absolutely delighted to have this incredible opportunity to follow in his footsteps.”
“I’m not going to lie, it was really tough! Everyone told me that while running the London Marathon you experience an atmosphere like no other – and it definitely was incredible.”
“It feels like the whole of London was out supporting you and it was good to know my husband was in the crowd. There were some really hard moments, but I called my mum, grandma and best friend on the phone while I was running and they helped me through!”
“Knowing that so many people had sponsored me so generously, and that every step I took was helping to raise money to fund vital research to help fight pancreatic cancer really helped me to cross the finish line.”
Pancreatic Cancer is the only major cancer with a five-year survival rate in the single digits. Despite advancements in treating other major cancers, there is still no early detection method for pancreatic cancer. Every day, an estimated 1,006 people worldwide are diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, and an estimated 985 die from it.
Charlotte added: “I’d like to say a big thank you to everyone who has sponsored me. I’ve been completely overwhelmed by the amount of support I’ve had, I just can’t believe I’ve raised such a great amount of money for this very worthy cause. It was definitely an emotional day but I know my Dad would be so proud of me, and I have no doubt he was there with me in spirit on Sunday. And considering my mum and dad have both run the London Marathon, I’m delighted to have completed the family set!””
Pancreatic Cancer UK works tirelessly to supporting those affected by the disease, investing in research, lobbying for greater recognition of pancreatic cancer, and being there for everyone involved in the fight. To sponsor Charlotte, click here.
