Running to fight breast cancer

Kirsty Newman ran the London Marathon to support research into breast cancer – after being diagnosed with a type of gene mutation linked to an increased risk of the disease.

In October 2014 Kirsty was found to have a faulty version of one of the BRCA breast cancer genes, after being tested when she found out there was a history of the gene mutation in her family.

Kirsty had never run a marathon before, but having watched her fiancé and one of her best friends run the London Marathon, and despite believing that it was something she could never do, her diagnosis inspired her to take on the challenge.

Kirsty joined #teamICR this year after learning about the role played by The Institute of Cancer Research, London, in discovering the BRCA2 gene and developing new therapies for breast cancer.

Kirsty said: “I realised that life was too short to place self-imposed limitations on myself and I was determined to complete the marathon and turn this event in my life into something positive.”

Kirsty completed the 26.2 mile course in 4:30:20. She received amazing support from everyone she knows with her training and fundraising. The donations from friends, family and work colleagues have so far come in at £2783.86. Many of her supporters were there on the day of the marathon to cheer her on from the sidelines.

Kirsty attached a minion to the back of her vest  with the names of the cancer fighters for whom she was running and then she ran with it in her hand for the last 600m. She sent a message to her supporters, after the race, "..It was a privilege to run on behalf of your loved ones."

If you are able to add to the donations please go to  https://www.justgiving.com/Kirsty-SpecialK.

If you are inspired to take part in next year's London Marathon or any running events as part of #teamICR email [email protected] or see Sports and Challenges page for event listings throughout 2016 and 2017.