A sincere thank you to Robert for choosing to support the OPA by running the Brighton Marathon 2026. By taking on this challenge, Robert is helping to raise vital awareness and funds for our support services.
His dedication makes a meaningful difference to the work we do and is truly appreciated by everyone at the OPA. We are grateful for his commitment and ongoing support.
Robert’s story
Cancer has deeply affected my family. My dad was diagnosed with oesophageal cancer, and doctors found a 12cm tumour. It was an incredibly frightening time, filled with uncertainty and fear. Around the same time, my uncle was also diagnosed with a very rare cancer affecting 1 in every 100,00 adding even more strain to an already overwhelming chapter of our lives.
Thankfully, my dad came through treatment, as has my uncle, but not every family is as fortunate. The impact of oesophageal cancer is brutal — and that’s why I’m running for OPA, the Oesophageal Patients Association. They support patients and families through one of the hardest journeys imaginable, and I want to help them continue that work.
This is my first ever marathon, probably the worst idea I’ve ever had.
This marathon isn’t just about fundraising. It’s also part of my own fight. I’ve been battling depression for quite a while, and this run represents something bigger — a goal, a turning point, and a personal victory.
I’m running for my dad and my uncle. I’m running for others. And I’m running to prove to myself that I can keep going.
Please support if you can – https://www.justgiving.com/page/running-with-plastic
