Breast surgeon, breast cancer patient and author, Liz says running helped her get through chemotherapy and reduce the chances of it coming back
Why i run
How did you get into running?
I set myself the challenge of running the London Marathon for my 30th birthday. I’d never run before and wasn’t a member of a club, but I loved zoning out on the long runs. Ten years later, I was having chemotherapy for breast cancer and discovered my local parkrun, and I’m now an ambassador for 5kyourway.
What do you remember about your first race?
It was a half marathon at Silverstone. People were talking about pacing and predicted times, where I was just hoping to get round. Five minutes after the gun went off, I suddenly needed the loo and joined a flurry of women squatting behind a barrier on the racetrack.
Which race are you most proud of?
A colour dash for East Anglia Children’s Hospice. It was halfway through chemotherapy, and I was determined to run the whole way round. My husband Dermot dragged me along and made sure we were covered in paint at every station. My legs wanted to stop but I forced myself to keep going, determined that cancer wouldn’t stop me doing what I loved.
Where’s your favourite place to run?
At my local parkrun in Bury St Edmunds in March. There are daffodils for miles, and I love being part of the community. When I’m not able to run, I marshal and cheer. It’s great to see cancer patients coming to walk, jog or run with 5kyourway
How do you fit in training?
Before breast cancer, I had strict plans focused on getting a PB. Now, I run because I want to, and I need to. Running can reduce the risk of my cancer coming back and it will strengthen my menopausal bones. I stop worrying about how slow
