Karen goes the distance in support of the John van Geest Cancer Research Centre

NTU is delighted to be a Bronze Charity Partner for the Robin Hood Half Marathon again this year, with 17 motivated fundraisers already having pledged to run the 21km route through Nottingham for the JvGCRC. All of the runners who have generously committed their time and energy to raise money for this cause are valued members of the NTU community. We are very proud that many fundraisers are also current NTU staff and students and would like to shine a spotlight on Karen's journey to becoming a fundraising superstar for cancer research.

Karen was drawn to this cause as her family is one of many that have been hit by the devastating impact of cancer, with her mum, sister and best friend all having been diagnosed with bowel cancer. Karen tragically lost her mum to this disease. In her memory, she was motivated to raise money and awareness in the fight against cancer.

Cancer continues to be a very real and destructive presence in many of our lives. However, with the combined effort of dedicated researchers like the JvGCRC team and committed fundraisers like Karen uplifting their work, the devastating impact of cancer can be lessened significantly for all those affected.

Speaking about her experience so far training towards the half marathon, Karen gave her advice for other runners to “make it enjoyable and go with friends so it doesn't become a chore”. Karen has had the support of her friend Sally-Ann Allen. They train together and will be running the full route side by side on the day. We can’t wait to cheer on Karen, Sally-Ann and all the other wonderful runners in September.

If you would like to support Karen’s commitment to combatting the impact of cancer, please visit her fundraising page and donate to this worthy cause.