A DAD of two is taking on an ultra marathon in memory of his partner who died from breast cancer.
Rufus Carter’s partner Pippa was first diagnosed in September 2020 with an aggressive form of breast cancer.
She underwent a mastectomy, chemotherapy and radiotherapy before being given the all clear.
Sadly, in June 2021 scans revealed that Pippa had ten brain tumours and at that stage was told she had six months to live.
Pippa sadly passed away in February 2023, leaving behind Rufus along with her two children.
Rufus, from Chester and in his 50s, is now taking on an ultra marathon to help others facing similar circumstances to him and his family affected by cancer.
Rufus said: “Last year I took on the UTS50, a 55km Ultra Mountain Marathon in Snowdonia but this year I have kicked it up a gear and signed up for the UTS100, a 103km race around Snowdonia.”
While undergoing treatment, Pippa received support from Maggie’s, a cancer charity in Wirral.
“I want to raise more money for such a special place that provides so much for so many.
“Maggie’s was such an important place for Pippa while she was alive.
“A space Pippa used to say was like walking into a warm cuddle. Since her death Maggie’s has provided me with the most extraordinary support from their psychologist.
“I feel the person I am today is down to the team at Maggie’s and I felt I wanted to do something to pay back for all they have done for me.
“I call Maggie’s - the softest of places to land at the hardest of times - made possible by the amazing team and the extraordinary volunteers who make the best cups of tea with the warmest most welcoming smiles.”
The Marathon is 103km long and consists of seven mountains (Snowdon twice), including 6,400 meters of elevation. The maximum time allowed for the race is 32 hours, with seven checkpoints along the way, each with a cut off time.
Rufus added: “I talk to Pippa nonstop as I run, I reflect on her journey, her superhuman strength, her highs, and her lows. I picture myself walking around Maggie’s as I run, I see the amazing team, I see their welcoming faces.
“I am not an experienced Ultra runner, so this has been a 12-month project consisting of race research, running most days, including Christmas Day and on holidays.
“As well as weekly strength and conditioning training to try and be ready for such an unimaginable challenge.
“In all truth, I have no idea if I will complete the race, but I know I will start the race and be fuelled by the knowledge that everyday people walk into Maggie’s using more strength and more energy than I will ever know.”
Kathy Wright, Centre Head at Maggie’s Wirral, said: “Rufus is taking on such an enormous challenge for Maggie’s in memory of Pippa.
“We’re extremely grateful to Rufus for continuing to raise awareness of the much-needed support that we provide and for helping us to be there for those living with and beyond cancer.
“We wish Rufus the very best of luck for his challenge this year and will be forever thankful for his dedication and fundraising efforts.
“If you are struggling with a cancer diagnosis or have faced a loss due to cancer, then please know that Maggie’s is here for you and your families.
“Just drop in or call the team on 0151 334 4301.”
If you would like to donate to Rufus’ fundraising click here: https://www.justgiving.com/page/rufus-carter-1710782140749
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