Triple bowel cancer tragedy drives the Beard and the Twiglet on

“I was 19 years old when my Mum was diagnosed with bowel cancer. We were told it was terminal and she had up to 6 months to live. But after 6 days, she closed her eyes and never opened them again.

“There are certain milestones a parent should see with their child, way beyond their first steps. First home, finding love, children of their own. There are special days families should be together, my wedding day being one of those. My Mum should have been there. Every parent should be there.”

Mum Julia is not the only person James has lost to bowel cancer. A few years earlier, his Nan died of the disease, and his Mum’s sister Mary also tragically succumbed to bowel cancer – the 3rd most common cancer in the UK.

Doctors discovered that a genetic disorder called Lynch syndrome runs in James’ family. Since the death of 3 of the most important women in his life, James and his brother are regularly tested to try to ensure the disease doesn’t take any more of his family.

James has completed some epic events to raise money for World Cancer Research Fund, including 2 marathons and many shorter races. He often fundraises and competes with his friend Carl Villiers, fondly known as the Twiglet because of his slender build. Cancer research is also a cause close to Carl’s heart, as he has a mutated gene linked to cancer and also benefits from regular screening.

Determined to make a difference

James Radford at one of World Cancer Research Fund’s supporter events.

Yet sadly, it’s not just bowel cancer that has struck in James’ family. Another of James’ aunts, Helen, and his Step-Mum, Lyn, died from different cancers. The devastating impact on his family hasn’t just made James sad – it’s made him angry and determined to make a difference.

“To all those who knew Helen, she was the light in the room. She always had something to say. She passed away quietly and pain free in Milton Keynes Hospital, with family close by holding her hand.

“Then when Lyn died, watching one of the strongest people I have had the pleasure of meeting losing her battle with cancer made me angry. Cancer doesn’t care who you are or how strong you are. It’s an evil disease.

“I’m often asked, how do you keep motivated to fundraise for World Cancer Research Fund? Honestly, it’s simple. I think of the people I’ve lost to cancer and all that it’s robbed me of.

“I wouldn’t wish this on anyone, so if raising money can maybe one day stop others being robbed of memories, I won’t give up.”

> Read more of James’ story and his top fundraising tips