Broadcaster and DJ Adele Roberts is encouraging people to start 2025 with purpose by signing up for Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life.
This beloved series of events, which funds vital cancer research, will return to hundreds of locations across the UK this spring and summer, including Sunderland, Newcastle, Gateshead, and Durham. Sign up during January to take advantage of a 50% discount on the entry fee by using the code RACE25NY.
Fighting Cancer in the North East
Every year, approximately 17,600 people are diagnosed with cancer in the North East. Funds raised at Race for Life directly support research into preventing, diagnosing, and treating cancer, helping scientists move closer to a world where everyone can live longer, healthier lives free from the fear of this disease.
Events for All Ages and Abilities
Race for Life events cater to all fitness levels, offering 3k, 5k, and 10k runs, as well as the fun and challenging Pretty Muddy obstacle course, with a special Pretty Muddy Kids option.
Key dates include:
- Sunderland: 3k, 5k, 10k, Pretty Muddy, and Pretty Muddy Kids – Sunday, 1 June
- Gateshead: 3k and 5k – Sunday, 15 June
- County Durham: 5k and 10k – Sunday, 29 June
Adele Roberts: An Inspiring Advocate
Adele Roberts, who was successfully treated for bowel cancer in 2021, continues to inspire others. She affectionately calls her stoma “Audrey” and, just 18 months after her treatment, set a Guinness World Record as the fastest woman to complete a marathon with an ileostomy. Adele is now working towards conquering all six World Major Marathons to raise funds for Cancer Research UK and the Attitude Mag Foundation, aiming to set a record for the fastest combined time for anyone with a stoma.
Adele“I Race for Life because of my little sister Lois. Within the space of two years, my Auntie Ann had lost our Uncle Phil to cancer and then had to go through it herself – without her husband. Lois wanted to do Race for Life in tribute to Auntie Ann and Uncle Phil and to give back to the organisations that’d helped them. And she’s inspired me to do the same.”
Race for Life: Making an Impact
Since its launch in 1994, over 10 million people have participated in Race for Life, supporting 30 years of cancer research advancements.
“No matter how cancer affects us, life is worth racing for.
Lisa Millett, Cancer Research UK’s spokesperson in the North East
“Sadly nearly 1 in 2 of us will get cancer in our lifetime but all of us can help beat it. We’re proud that Race for Life has already helped double survival rates in the UK. Every penny raised at Race for Life truly makes a difference and powers progress.
“We’d love for as many people as possible across the North East and beyond to join us at Race for Life. There is an event for everyone and we mean everyone. Our events are strictly non-competitive which means everyone can have a go- and love every minute. There’s no pressure to finish in a certain time, just give it what you can. Lace up and join in.
“January is the perfect time to commit to getting a little more active. Whether people are living with cancer, taking part in honour of or in memory of a loved one with cancer, in it for the medals or just for the fun of fundraising, there is a place for everyone.”
Transformative Cancer Research
Funds raised through Race for Life have contributed to breakthroughs like the HPV vaccine, which is expected to prevent nearly 90% of cervical cancers in the UK, and the development of tamoxifen and abiraterone, treatments that have extended the lives of breast and prostate cancer patients.
Join the Movement
To take part in Race for Life and make a difference, visit raceforlife.org and sign up today.