A London Marathon runner will be raising vital funds for cancer research this weekend in memory of his father David, who passed away when he was just 13 years old.
Joe Dale, 22, resides in Cranbrook, Kent, and works locally in the construction industry. He will be running for The Institute of Cancer Research, London (ICR), a world-leading research institute and charity dedicated to defeating cancer.
Reflecting on his father's battle with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, Joe shared: "When I was seven, my dad was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. He fought it for about five years, on and off, then went into remission, which was amazing. But after roughly two years cancer-free, we noticed swelling around his neck. The cancer had returned and hit him hard. I was 13 by then, old enough to grasp the possibility of growing up without my dad."
He continued: "He was placed in intensive care and passed away on 27 February 2017. Losing my dad during my teenage years was incredibly tough for all of us. I find now, as I get older, some of the hardest moments come. At 22, you look for guidance and support, for someone to lead you. I miss him dearly."
"The thing I loved most about my dad, and miss the most, is his positivity. Despite all the treatment he endured, he never complained. He just kept smiling. I try to carry that part of him into my own life."
"That's why it seems so cruel. Cancer doesn't discriminate. My dad lived a healthy life, he had so much time for us, and he loved us deeply. Cancer takes innocent lives. It's heartbreaking. Anything we can do to stop that is crucial."
"I want to channel that sadness into helping others battling this horrible disease. If running can help raise money, I'm all in. I want to make Dad proud and raise as much as possible."
Joe researched ICR before deciding to support them: "They have world-leading research leading to more effective treatments with fewer side effects. Any charity supporting cancer research is incredible. I have immense admiration for everyone working or volunteering there."
Training has been going well. Joe has already completed a half-marathon and, at the end of March, took part in a Parachute Regiment fundraiser with friends.
"I've always been into fitness, so running appealed to me. Doing a day's construction work then coming back for a half-marathon definitely has its challenges. But it's all for a great cause. What gets me through training is the thought of crossing the finish line and thinking of my dad. Whenever I feel like giving up, I think of him, and it pushes me over the line."
Rachael Potter, ICR Sports and Challenge Events Officer, said: "We're incredibly grateful for Joe's support and that of all our #teamICR runners in this year's London Marathon. Training while fundraising is a huge commitment, and we're continually inspired by our supporters' determination and passion. We hope Joe and all our runners feel motivated knowing they are making a real difference for people affected by cancer. Every pound raised drives our research forward, and every mile brings us closer to a future where cancer can be defeated."
