Why I'm running for Cancer Research UK

I’ll be running the Brighton marathon to help raise funds for Cancer Research UK (CR UK), so I thought it was about time I wrote about why I support this charity.

Cancer has occurred many times in my family, both in my immediate and extended family. Having had so many relatives affected really makes it personal to raise funds for a charity which supports those affected by cancer. When Mum was diagnosed, CR UK was an invaluable source of information for us at a time when we were all on a steep learning curve about the disease and its treatment. Thankfully, we’re six years and counting since her diagnosis.

Cancer Research UK also funded the labs where I did my undergraduate, postgraduate and post-doctoral research. Although none of my projects were directly funded by them, two went on to clinical trials funded by CR UK. Working in CR UK funded labs meant I had access to great researchers, facilities and training and without them I wouldn’t be where I am today. Raising funds through running the marathon is just one way in which I hope to repay CR UK for supporting the work I’ve been involved with. More importantly, raising money today helps CR UK funds tomorrow’s research projects and clinical trials.

I’m sure you’re all familiar with Cancer Research UK funded campaigns, which highlight the incidence of the disease. 1 in 3 people will be affected by cancer. Think of two of your friends. Chances are, one of you will be diagnosed with this disease. I often say that “life is too short” and for many people cancer is the reason why life is too short.

I would be really grateful for your support for my training towards this marathon and for supporting Cancer Research UK. Every donation, no matter how big or small, helps their life supporting and life saving work. Please visit my fundraising page at http://www.justgiving.com/Jaynesmarathonbrighton2013

Alternatively, you can text a donation by texting JDBM70£## to 70070, where ## is the number of pounds you wish to donate. The amount will be added to your phone bill.

Thank you for your support, it really does mean a lot to me.