Luton woman to run half-marathon for cancer charity in memory of her uncle - after vowing to tackle the challenge when she was 13

A Luton woman is getting ready to run a half-marathon in aid of a cancer charity – after pledging to tackle the challenge at age 13.

Mehtaab Rehman, now 20, will be running the Sheffield Half Marathon to raise funds for Macmillan Cancer Support in memory of her uncle, who died seven years ago.

She said: “I experienced the loss of my uncle and witnessed the profound impact it had on those close to me. It was at this age that I committed to running a half marathon, and it is finally time to fulfil this promise.

"Running 13.1 miles presents a significant challenge, but it pales in comparison to the challenges faced by those battling cancer every day. By supporting Macmillan, we can ensure that no one faces cancer alone.”

Mehtaab, who previously helped to raise over £1,000 for Shine during a ‘Colour Run’ in 2019, said that the Macmillan cause is what has driven her to keep going.

She added: “I recently found out that six miles of the half-marathon is uphill, and training my body to get used to this has proven to be physically, as well as mentally challenging. Raising money for a good cause is something that I will always jump at the opportunity to do, due to the positive impact and effects that it has on people’s lives.

"Your strength in facing the challenge of cancer is inspiring to so many, so keep going, remember how strong you are, and just know that you’re never alone.”

Visit Mehtaab’s JustGiving page to donate.