“Running the Hackney Half in memory of my grandad who passed away from oesophageal cancer. He always showed up for me, whether it was sports competitions, parents evenings, picking me up from school – now it’s time to show up for him. We miss him every day.” – Laura
Month: March 2025
Update after the Marathon
The run went so well, I had such a great time too! So many spectators cheering us all on, it was lovely to see. More importantly felt special to do for such a great cause, one close to my heart.
Nancy’s Story
“My name’s Nancy Over, and I’ve set up this JustGiving fundraiser in memory of my Dad, Andrew Over. On September 3rd, 2024, at just 56 years old, my Dad passed away peacefully at home after his battle with oesophageal cancer, leaving behind my siblings, Toby and Darcy, and his partner, Al.
Oesophageal cancer is an incredibly aggressive disease and one that is usually caught too late. My Dad was diagnosed in December 2023 with what initially seemed like a positive prognosis, but in the following months, he was told it was terminal and was advised to make himself comfortable in hospice care. Despite everything that was thrown at him in his last nine months, his cheeky humour remained, and he didn’t complain once.
As you can imagine, this has left a huge hole in my siblings’ and my life, and we struggle to imagine a future without him. But we want to do everything we can to keep his name and memory alive.
On April 6th, I’ll be running the Brighton Marathon for the OPA Cancer Charity, which supports those affected by oesophageal and gastric cancer. Whilst it’s sadly too late for my Dad and our family, knowing that this money could help support other families going through such a gruelling experience means a lot to me. If you’re able to spare even just a couple of pounds, I’d be very grateful. Thank you x
My Dad would think I’m delusional for running a marathon – and he’s not wrong!!” – Nancy Over
“We lost my dad in 2020 to Oesophageal cancer after a short battle.
I hadn’t previously heard of this type of cancer and don’t think it is spoken about enough despite being one of the most common cancers worldwide.
I’m fundraising for the OPA to help them raise awareness and support other families going through similar situations we had with my dad” – Alice Riley
“I completed the race in 2hrs 37mins. I’ve never ran further than 10 mile and only ever ran 10 mile once before so I’m really happy I managed to get through the whole race without stopping! The last half was tough but the support of local people and other people participating was fantastic, it really kept us going & I obviously kept reminding myself I was doing it for the OPA charity and for dad too”
