“When over one million people entered the ballot for the London marathon 2026, Andy Spary was not one of them.”

“In 2024, he was undergoing a surgical intervention initially thought to be an abscess linked to his Crohn’s disease.”

“The abscess turned out to be stage three colon cancer, a rare type, located in the area of his buttocks.”

“Two years later, Andy finished his first ever marathon in London in three hours and 25 minutes.”

“In the time between the diagnosis and the run, he underwent an intensive treatment plan that included a stoma procedure, several months of chemotherapy, and five weeks of radiotherapy.”

“Then, 11 months ago, he underwent major surgery to remove the cancer, including parts of his colon, rectum and surrounding tissue, followed by reconstructive surgery.”

“While at first he wasn’t able to even touch his feet or walk properly, in a matter of three or four months, he put his running shoes back on and trained for two half-marathons and the London marathon.”

“Through the charity, Andy secured a place in the London Marathon and started a GoFundMe, which has raised over £4,000 so far (roughly €4,700).”

“Andy, who works as a carpenter, said he wants to challenge common perceptions about a disease that is affecting more and more people today.”

“And while bowel cancer is on the rise among younger people, he urges others to get checked if they notice symptoms such as pain, blood in their stool or changes in bowel habits; And while these signs do not necessarily mean cancer, early detection can make a crucial difference.”