Inspired by friends who were training for a marathon and wanting to fulfil a long-held ambition, Jess and her husband Dean signed up for the Sydney Blackmores Half Marathon in support of Bowel Cancer Australia.
“I decided early on that if I was going to train for and complete a marathon, I might as well do it for a great cause!” said Jess. “My great Auntie was diagnosed with bowel cancer at the same time as a friend’s family member and then a lady I know through work was also diagnosed - so I saw how common it was. I was also able to witness the support and care that Bowel Cancer Australia showed, and I wanted to do my bit to help them continue to do this,” Jess added.
Jess and Dean began training and fundraising with gusto leading up to the event, but she still felt nervous about her goals for event day. “I was aiming to complete it in 2.5 hours and with Dean by my side the whole way, but I was actually able to complete it in 2 hours and 6 minutes!”
Jess concludes, “I was so emotional throughout the run, I had tears running down my face and looking back, I still get so emotional. I am very proud of us for having completed the marathon and raising funds for a cause we truly believe in!”
Jess raised a wonderful $1,148.17 for Bowel Cancer Australia through her enthusiasm and determination.
If you were inspired by Jess and wanted to take part in a sporting challenge as a fun way to keep healthy and reduce your bowel cancer risk while raising much needed funds for Bowel Cancer Australia, check out our Events and Activities Calendar or get in touch with us on 02 9923 8269 or through our webform.
