Cape Town runner targets London Marathon inspired by her mum’s cancer journey

Neuroendocrine cancers are a group of cancers that develop in cells of the neuroendocrine system. They can develop in different parts of the body such as the stomach, bowel, pancreas, or lungs.

Raine was just 17 years old when her father called her and her siblings with the news.

“It felt like the whole world changed in a second”, she said. “In the following months, I was wracked by fear and unpredictability about what the future held for mum and us.”

For years, Raine also worried the diagnosis might mean a higher risk for her too. Recently, she learned that it isn’t hereditary and her mum’s long-term outlook is encouraging.

Raine watched her mum bravely keep moving forward through her illness, including completing an MBA degree along the way.

“The experience has reshaped how I see health, time, and what’s possible. Every step I take when training is for those who can’t”, Raine shared. “Running the London Marathon is my way of honouring what my mum has been through and helps fund research so families can have more years together.”

In July 2025, Raine ran her first 5km in years. Since then, she has learned so much about the world of nutrition and eating healthier for training. This helped her to steadily increase her distance, recently completing a punishing 28km run.

On long training days, Raine’s dad often cycles alongside her in locations including Stellenbosch, surrounded by beautiful landscapes.

Raine has also started sharing her progress on social media, something she was initially nervous about.

“Don’t be scared to share your journey”, she said. “People really do want to back you.”

World Cancer Research Fund’s UK Director, Steve Greenberg, commented:

“We are so grateful to Raine for taking on the London Marathon in support of our vital work. Everyone here would like to wish Raine the best of luck as she takes on this incredible challenge in honour of her mum, all while raising awareness about the importance of cancer prevention research.”

Reflecting on her involvement with WCRF, Raine shared:

“I want to help people reduce cancer risk, including for cancers that receive less public attention.”

She’s asking supporters to donate, share her page, and help spread the word.