Two Times Cervical Cancer Survivor Runs York 10K

Lizzie is running to raise awareness of the importance of cervical smear tests after her own diagnosis of cervical cancer in July 2021, which was picked up during a routine smear, despite never missing a test and not having any symptoms. 

"It's hard to find the words to describe how terrified I was, but I tried to put on a brave face for my two daughters. I had to get through this for them."

Three weeks after her diagnosis, Lizzie underwent a radical hysterectomy at St James' Hospital in Leeds. Thankfully, she was cured with only an 8-10% chance of the cancer returning. After a strong and speedy recovery, she ran the Hull Half Marathon in June of 2022 to raise money for Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust.

However, in November of the same year, a routine check-up found that Lizzie's cancer had returned, just a few weeks before her 40th birthday, though fortunately it was localised and still curable.

Lizzie began treatment in January of 2023, going through a gruelling seven weeks of daily radiotherapy, and five weekly doses of chemotherapy, travelling from York to Leeds every day.

"I felt absolutely awful. The cold and dark winter days didn't help. I have a strong memory of looking out my window and seeing people running. I longed to be able to run again, and wondered if I ever would."

Lizzie had to wait three months after her treatment for scans to find out if the treatment had worked, but in May, she received the relieving news that it had been successful.

Lizzie continues to have regular check-ups and scans:

"When you're living scan to scan, you really appreciate the fragility of life. I want to make every second count, and that's what I'm trying to do."

Despite going through early menopause as a result of her treatment, as well as lymphedema in her legs and hips, and fractures in her pelvis, Lizzie is determined to run this year's York 10K.

"They make running a bit tricky, however, I am determined not to let those things stop me...I am so grateful to be alive! I want to make every second count, and that's what I'm trying to do."

Lizzie is running the 10K with her husband Darren on his birthday to raise money for York Against Cancer, a partner charity of the event, after their support, as they allowed Lizzie's family to stay in their Filey holiday home, which is open to local people affected by cancer.

"If you take anything from this - please remind your loved ones to get any unusual symptoms checked out, and to get their cervical smear test. Mine saved my life."