Tooting Woman Takes on London Marathon After Overcoming Cancer Diagnosis
A resilient woman from Tooting is preparing to tackle the London Marathon on Sunday, April 26, to support individuals impacted by cancer. Abi Sherratt made the decision to undertake the 26.2-mile challenge following her diagnosis with thyroid cancer just last year. She is running to raise crucial funds for The Institute of Cancer Research (ICR), a globally renowned charity focused on discovering new treatments.
A Shocking Diagnosis at a Young Age
Abi was only 26 years old when a friend observed swelling in her neck, leading to a diagnosis of papillary thyroid cancer in February 2025. The news was completely unexpected for the young Londoner, who considered herself exceptionally fit and healthy at the time. Abi stated: “My diagnosis was a huge shock and totally unexpected. I was only 26 years old, fit and healthy, and I did not feel at all unwell. In fact, I had just completed a fitness challenge, running 5K every single day of the previous month.”
Journey Through Treatment and Recovery
Although her cancer was deemed treatable, Abi's recovery involved two major surgeries to remove her thyroid and lymph nodes. She also underwent radioactive iodine treatment, a specialized form of radiotherapy, which she finished in September. Now, with her treatment completed, she aims to demonstrate that her diagnosis will not dictate her future or limit her potential. Abi explained: “There is no doubt that it has been a tough journey – both physically and mentally. But I know that I’m one of the lucky ones, as my type of cancer was highly curable. Knowing that my type of cancer was so treatable made a real difference and gave me hope.” She attributes her positive outlook to scientific advancements and wants to ensure other patients have similar opportunities for a cure.
Marathon as a Personal Milestone and Fundraising Effort
The marathon marks a significant personal achievement for Abi as she anticipates her final all-clear scan in May. Abi said: “It will be a personal physical feat for me, but one that will help me prove to myself that I am well, that I can still take on tough challenges, that my cancer will not define me or hold me back.” By participating as part of #TeamICR, she hopes to raise £2,500 to aid in finding the next scientific breakthrough for patients facing more challenging diagnoses. Abi added: “I am thrilled to be running as part of #TeamICR and making a contribution by giving back to research. It is a thank you to those who researched my type of cancer in the past and a sign of hope for those patients who don’t have it so easy.”
Charity Appreciation and Impact
Rachael Potter from The Institute of Cancer Research expressed deep gratitude for the dedication shown by runners like Abi. She said: “We’re incredibly grateful for the support of Abi and all of our #teamICR runners taking part in this year’s London Marathon.” The charity believes that every mile run by the team brings the world closer to ultimately defeating cancer. She emphasized: “Every pound raised helps drive our research forward, and every mile brings us closer to a future where cancer can be defeated.” To support Abi in reaching her fundraising goal, individuals can visit her official donation page online.
