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Having previously enjoyed participating in a Cancer Research UK 10K Run event, Graham Bower decided to take on one of the toughest running challenges – the Virgin London Marathon 2011! He managed to complete the course in an extremely impressive time of 3 hours 19 minutes and raise over £3,000 for Cancer Research UK – a cause close to his heart.“I was successfully treated with drugs which were partly developed by Cancer Research UK, so you could say that they saved my life. I owe my life to scientists like those supported by Cancer Research UK and I intend to make the most of it. My cancer has now been in remission for four years and I want to repay the favour.”
Tackling challenges head on – and overcoming them
Graham’s achievements are all the more remarkable when you realise that before his diagnosis he hadn’t even run a mile! And the idea of running a marathon would have been preposterous to him!
Yet, just four years later, Graham is proof that even the hardest challenges can be overcome – whether that’s a marathon or beating cancer. His aim now? To continue raising awareness of the many thousands of people who – like him – have been successfully treated for cancer.
Graham’s positive approach to life is perhaps best shown by the inspirational way he describes dealing with his cancer recovery – something that he believes can be applied to any experience.
“Recovering from cancer is not about leaving the disease behind or running away from it. It’s about embracing it as a part of your life. It is about accepting what is, and adapting. It’s about carrying it with you forever and realising that it’s ok. That the experience has become a part of you and that you are richer and stronger as a consequence.”
Share your story
If, like Graham you have a story that could inspire others and you would like to help us raise awareness about our work, we'd be delighted to hear from you. Share your story with others.
Take the challenge and run for charity
If you have been inspired by Graham’s story and would like to raise money for Cancer Research UK, take a look at the range of events and sign up for a challenge.
Do you have questions about cancer?
Cancer Research UK provides quality information for people affected by cancer.
- Call our specialist cancer information nurses freephone on 0800 800 4040.
- Visit CancerHelp UK for easy to understand, up-to-date cancer information.
- Visit Cancer Chat to share your information and experiences with others affected by cancer.
