Cancer Research Wales

A Cardiff woman left angry when her aunty was diagnosed with breast cancer has completed this year’s Virgin London Marathon and raised a staggering £6,500 for Cancer Research Wales.

Jenna Rolls, who lives in Gwaelod y Garth, learned her aunty, Gale Kidman, had triple negative breast cancer last September and was determined to turn the devastating situation in to a positive one and try and make a difference.

Jenna, 28 and an RE teacher at Ysgol Gymraeg Glantaf in Llandaff, said: “My aunty’s illness had a huge effect on my family, and to top it off, around the same time a friend of mine suddenly lost her dad to cancer. I felt angry at cancer and wanted to do what I could to help beat it. My friend, Nina, encouraged me to take part in the London Marathon and I’m so glad she did, it was an amazing experience.”

Jenna, who admits long distance running is not her sport, followed a strict training regime in the run up to her challenge. Her personal trainer partner, Gareth Jones, also supported her training efforts.

Jenna said: “Before I started training in December I’d never ran more than three miles, but because I’d put so much effort in to preparing myself I felt ready for the weekend’s challenge.”

Initially Jenna had set herself a target of £1,500, but went on to raise £6,500. She admits: “People were so generous which I think is testament to how much belief there is in the cause and, sadly, how many people have been affected by the disease. I’m glad to report that my aunty has now completed her chemotherapy and is due to start radiotherapy, and she’s kicking cancer’s ass!

“I know the money we’ve raised for Cancer Research Wales won’t cure the disease, but at least it can go towards further research and we can get a step closer.”

Cancer Research Wales Charity Director, Liz Andrews said; “Sadly, like Jenna has experienced, cancer is becoming all too common and almost everyone is affected by it in some way. By taking part in the marathon Jenna is able to help us in our mission to reduce the impact of cancer on the people of Wales. She is also raising awareness of triple negative breast cancer which is one of the less well known types of cancer.

“We’re very proud of Jenna for completing the marathon and hope her aunty continues in her successful recovery.”