Cancer survivor to run 120-mile ultramarathon

A cancer survivor is preparing to take on a 120-mile ultramarathon from the hospital where he received treatment to the university where he is now studying.

Jack Brown was 16 when he was diagnosed with testicular cancer in 2020 and underwent chemotherapy and three surgeries before being given the all clear in 2022.

The 21-year-old says he "didn't have the energy to walk" during his treatment, but went on to complete the London Marathon in April 2024 in aid of Teenage Cancer Trust.

His new fundraising challenge will see him set off from The Royal Marsden, in Surrey, on Friday and finish at Loughborough University, where he studies marketing and business management, on Monday.

Mr Brown, originally from Maidstone in Kent, found a lump on his testicle during the Covid-19 lockdown.

"It was definitely the toughest period of my life, but it makes you feel a lot stronger when you're out of it and appreciate life," he said.

Mr Brown began running to regain fitness, despite a warning from doctors that he may never be able to properly compete in sport again.

"Completing the London Marathon for charity was an amazing feeling," he said.

"Seeing the impact the fundraising had I knew I had to keep fighting the battle until we can ensure no young person faces cancer alone."

Mr Brown, who is now a semi-professional rugby player, hopes to raise £10,000 for Teenage Cancer Trust with his upcoming ultramarathon.

He said: "It was very significant to me to begin this challenge where I received my treatment, because everything I'm doing is to raise awareness and vital funds.

"At the time I was only 16 and I wasn't sure if I'd get into university because treatment interrupted my exams.

"So, finishing the ultramarathon there is something I'm really looking forward to, it'll feel like a full circle moment."

However, Mr Brown admits "it's going to be tough".

"I've always played rugby and enjoyed being physically active but never thought I'd be taking on a challenge of this magnitude," he added.

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