Salford student raises more than £500 for Prostate Cancer UK running the half marathon

A Salford University student was able to raise over £500 for Prostate Cancer, running the Manchester Half Marathon this weekend. 

The Salford Adult Nursing student, Katie Richards, 20, ran the half marathon in memory of her grandad, Peter Shaw, who sadly passed away in March.

The charity fundraiser aimed to raise money for Cancer Research after he tragically lost his life to Prostate Cancer earlier this year.

Following his death, Katie decided to embark on the challenge with her cousin Lucy Shaw, lining up with the 24,000 people who participated in this years event.

The aim to raise as much money as possible, as according to Prostate Cancer UK, more than 44,000 men are diagnosed every year.

Katie’s grandfather’s health quickly deteriorated after his diagnosis leading to his passing.

Following this, the pair really wanted to spread more awareness and raise money to invest in development to treat the disease.

Katie said: “I don’t think Prostate Cancer is researched a lot and wanted to push the awareness as it’s a huge thing for a lot of men.

“My grandad’s passing really showed just how quick things can take a turn.”

Katie and her cousin Lucy Shaw were able to successfully run the half marathon in a time of two hours and 27 minutes.

The pair were supported by their friends and family who cheered and encouraged them round the course.

After finishing the run, Katie said: ” I was shocked.

“I thought I was going to pass out at 15km but I just felt really happy for myself.

“I just kept going and saw my family at the end of it and it just pushed me to go faster.

“Even if you have never trained before or have never ran, you can do it,” she continued “The amount of people cheering you on and the atmosphere of it would push you and make you feel brilliant.”

Katie’s cousin, Lucy, said: “Running for such a great cause felt so accomplishing and I was so happy.”

Following her success Katie has encouraged more people to sign up, get involved, and even revealed that she is looking to take part in the Manchester Marathon in April.

The fundraiser for Prostate Cancer UK is still running. For more information, click here.