So many of our fantastic supporters have been pounding the pavement since Christmas in preparation for April – The Spring Marathon season! The determination of our amazing runners this Spring has been incredibly inspiring and we are delighted to share just a snippet of their journey with you. Taking on some of Europe’s biggest marathon events, from Paris to Brighton and Manchester, every mile run has helped bring us closer to a future free from breast cancer.
Paris Marathon 2026
The streets of Paris came alive yet again as our runners took on the iconic course, beginning on the Champs-Élysées and winding through one of the most beautiful cities in the world.
For Erin Renner, this marathon marked a deeply personal milestone.
“I run many races, but this was my first time running in support of a charity. Running for Against Breast Cancer, a personal fight for me and my family, deepened my commitment to training and my enthusiasm for every minute of the marathon. I had tears in my eyes when the wave of runners started down the Champs Élysées, thinking about how lucky we are to be healthy enough to run 42 kilometres.
“Running alongside her husband made the experience even more meaningful. We trained and ran side by side which made it an extra special experience. I said to him at kilometre 38 that I didn’t want it to end.”
Katie Barr’s journey to the start line in Paris was nothing short of extraordinary. After being diagnosed with breast cancer in December 2024, she endured 14 rounds of chemotherapy before setting herself a new goal.
“I needed a reason to get out of bed and feel like a human again… doing it for Against Breast Cancer seemed a no brainer.”
Just 223 days after finishing treatment, Katie crossed the finish line in Paris.
“Everyone was a hype girl and the atmosphere got me over the line… I just kept thinking, if I can do four months of chemo… I can do anything.”
For Marta Len, the marathon became a powerful tribute.
“Running the Paris Marathon became far more than just a personal challenge… It’s about unity, support, and doing something bigger than yourself. It’s about honouring those we’ve lost and turning that loss into something meaningful.”
Brighton Marathon 2026
Brighton once again delivered an unforgettable race day filled with energy, sunshine, and incredible achievements.
Abi Barrett caught the marathon bug quickly.
“Six months ago… the thought of running another 13 miles seemed crazy. But after the atmosphere and buzz, I signed up for my first marathon.”
Her hard work paid off with an impressive finish time of 3:31:45 and over £1,000 raised.
“It was challenging at times… but also the most rewarding and enjoyable experience I’ve ever had.”
Running in honour of her mum made it even more special.
“It’s because of charities like Against Breast Cancer that my Mum was able to cheer me on from the sideline… for that my family and I will be forever grateful.”
Joanne Roberts and Kimberley Ryder took on their first marathon together, raising over £2,000.
“Kim was diagnosed with bilateral breast cancer in 2019, and thanks to science, five amazing hospitals, and a whole lot of luck she’s still here.… so, to celebrate, she asked me to run a marathon with her. A first for both of us”
Despite living hours apart and facing injury, they crossed the finish line side by side.
“Brighton was an incredible atmosphere… we laughed a lot, chatted a lot and are so proud to say we did it.”
Megan White returned for her second Brighton Marathon with a powerful motivation.
“Both my great aunties have had breast cancer and beat it… not every family is as lucky as mine.”
Even after injury mid-race, she pushed through.
“When you are running for a charity, you keep that at the front of your mind… I’m happy I raised £692 and hope it makes an impact.”
Oli took on his first marathon in memory of his mum.
“I chose to participate in Brighton Marathon after I started running in February 2025 as a coping mechanism when my mum’s breast cancer worsened and she reached her final stages of life.”
Running to honour her, he found strength when it mattered most.
“The marathon itself was tough… I started to hit the ‘wall’ around the 28km mark, however I thought about my Mum’s struggles and her ability to never complain or give up and I continued to the end and got a respectable time of 04:11. This is for you Mum.”
Isabel also ran Brighton in memory of a loved one.
“In April 2024, we lost my Auntie Olivia to secondary breast cancer after a lengthy battle. To have the opportunity to raise this money in her memory has meant a lot to me.”
Despite injury in the lead-up, she showed incredible determination.
“I was so anxious that I wouldn’t be able to race, but luckily I was able to manage it… 42.2k, £1437 and 6 energy gels later, I’m happy with myself and grateful for the opportunity to raise money for such a good cause.”
Billy and Lizzie took on the marathon together as siblings, creating a truly special tribute.
“Standing at the start line, we felt a mix of excitement and pride. This was our first marathon, and we were running it together in memory of our beloved granny, who we lost to breast cancer.
“From the beginning, this was never just about the race, it was about honouring her.”
The day exceeded all expectations for Billy and Lizzie and running side by side made it more meaningful.
“The atmosphere was incredible, and the support from the crowd carried us through even the toughest moments. Strangers showed such kindness and encouragement, it made all the difference.
“Together, and with our granny in our hearts, we kept going.
“We’re incredibly proud to have raised money to help others affected by breast cancer… it’s been a true honour and a privilege.”
Manchester Marathon 2026
Manchester delivered another standout event, with incredible crowd support and unforgettable moments for our runners.
For Claire Lue, it was a dream debut.
“What a fantastic experience for a first marathon… the atmosphere and local support undoubtedly spurred me on to becoming a sub 4-hour marathon runner.”
She also reflected on the deeper meaning behind her run.
“I’m so happy I was able to raise such an incredible sum for Against Breast Cancer… and hear so many personal stories along the way.”
Florence Wilson achieved a personal best on the day.
“The course was brilliant, with incredible crowd support… I was delighted to achieve a 4-minute PB.”
Raising £644 added even more significance.
“Supporting Against Breast Cancer gave every mile real meaning and made crossing the finish line even more rewarding.”
A Season to Remember
Across the Spring marathon season we continue to be humbled and admiring of the extraordinary resilience of our supporters. Whether running in memory, in celebration, or in hope for the future, every one of them are contributing to increased awareness and potentially life-saving research.
To everyone who took part this Spring – thank you so much. Your dedication, courage, and passion continue to inspire us all.
If you’d like to support Against Breast Cancer by taking part in one of our events, we’d love to have you involved. Take a look at what we have on offer.