My Story
Why I’m Running the Race for Life 10K in May 2026 for My Friend, Marie Coley In May 2026, I’ll be lacing up my trainers and pushing myself through every single kilometre of the Race for Life 10K — not for fitness, not for fun, but for something far more important and personal. I’m running for my incredible friend, Marie Coley — a woman who faced cancer and survived with a strength, courage, and grace that continues to inspire me every single day. Marie’s journey with cancer wasn’t just a chapter in her life; it was a battle that tested everything — her body, her spirit, and her will. She fought with unwavering determination, endured treatment with quiet resilience, and somehow, even in the darkest moments, kept her sense of humour and kindness intact. Watching someone you care about go through something so cruel is heartbreaking. There were days filled with fear, uncertainty, and helplessness — yet Marie stood tall, even when everything tried to bring her to her knees. Cancer doesn’t just affect the person diagnosed; it ripples through families, friendships, and communities. It leaves scars both seen and unseen. But Marie’s story is one of survival — of overcoming. And I want the world to know that, celebrate that, and contribute to a future where more people have the chance to survive, just like she did. That’s why I’m running. I’m running for Marie — for the tears she shed, for the strength she found, and for the life she continues to live with such passion and heart. I’m running for every person currently fighting cancer, for those we’ve lost, and for the researchers working tirelessly to find better treatments and, one day, a cure. I’m running for hope. I’m running for change. Every step I take in that 10K will be fuelled by gratitude — for Marie’s recovery — and by the fierce belief that together, we can make a difference. Cancer may have left its mark, but it didn’t win. Marie did. So if you’re reading this and you’re able to donate, support, or even just share my story — thank you. You’re not just supporting me, you’re standing with Marie and every single person impacted by this disease. Let’s run cancer out of lives — one kilometre at a time.
