A father-of-two is running this year’s London Marathon in support of life-saving cancer research.
Charlie Nodwell, a 46-year-old from Woodford, is taking on the 26.2-mile challenge to raise funds for The Institute of Cancer Research (ICR), following his wife Courtney’s diagnosis of bowel cancer in September 2024.
Mr Nodwell said: "Cancer is devastating and very scary.
"Navigating everything with young children has been extremely challenging.
"It has been extremely tough to see Courtney go through everything."
The diagnosis came as a huge shock to the family.
His wife, Courtney, was diagnosed at the age of 40.
Her cancer was found to be locally advanced, though it had not spread.
She underwent six rounds of chemotherapy to prevent further spread, followed by radiotherapy to shrink the tumour ahead of surgery.
After her treatment, she completed a final course of ‘mop-up’ chemotherapy.
Her latest scan has shown no evidence of disease, and the family remains hopeful for a positive outcome.
Mr Nodwell said the family feel fortunate despite the ordeal.
He said: "I know that our story is not uncommon anymore.
"Too many people will have had similar cancer journeys with a close friend or loved one.
"Worryingly, cancer, and particularly bowel cancer, is rising in the under 50s and there is still no clear explanation as to why.
"We consider ourselves to be very fortunate – firstly, that Courtney’s tumour was identified so quickly and secondly, that the cancer treatment available today is nothing short of remarkable."
He said advances in chemotherapy, targeted radiotherapy, and surgery have made a huge difference.
Courtney’s operation was carried out using robot-assisted abdominal keyhole surgery.
Mr Nodwell credits cancer research for making such treatments possible and is now raising funds for the ICR to help continue this progress.
He said: "It goes without saying that I am incredibly passionate about this cause and this fight.
"The more research is done into cancer, the more ways we can prevent, detect, treat, and maybe even one day eliminate it for good.
"Cancer research is vital – if we are going to beat this disease, we have to tackle the root cause of it.
"The improvements in drugs and technology in the last ten years have meant that Courtney was able to get treatment which was unavailable previously.
"Lots of people with her diagnosis would have died ten or twenty years ago.
"We might not be able to cure it completely, but it would be great if advancements in science mean future generations can live longer, better lives with cancer."
He hopes to raise £2,500 through his marathon effort.
Rachael Potter, sports and challenge events officer at the ICR, said: "We’re incredibly grateful for the support of Charlie and all of our #teamICR runners taking part in this year’s London Marathon.
"Training for a marathon while fundraising is a huge commitment, and we continue to be inspired by the determination and passion shown by our supporters.
"We hope Charlie and all our runners feel motivated knowing they are helping to make a real difference for people affected by cancer.
"Every pound raised helps drive our research forward, and every mile brings us closer to a future where cancer can be defeated."
The Institute of Cancer Research is one of the world’s leading cancer research organisations.
It is known for its pioneering work and partnership with The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust.
The ICR is a world leader at identifying cancer-related genes and discovering new targeted drugs for personalised cancer treatment.
It relies on support from partner organisations, funders and the general public to continue its life-saving research.
Mr Nodwell took up running as a way to cope with the stress of his wife’s diagnosis.
He said it helped him find some relief during a challenging time.
Supporters can help Mr Nodwell reach his fundraising goal by donating through his London Marathon fundraising page.
