Broadcaster gets ready for London Marathon

NEVER ONE to shirk a challenge, comedian and BBC London Radio personality Eddie Nestor has spoken with pride about his bid to run next month’s gruelling London Marathon.

Running the 2012 Virgin London Marathon means a lot to the broadcaster, and he is delighted that his efforts will be used to raise funds to support leading leukaemia charity the African Caribbean Leukaemia Trust (ACLT).

Nestor said: “Running in the event is the realisation of a dream that was denied to me five years ago, when I was diagnosed with cancer. 

“I had already started training, and despite the aches and pains, was looking forward to completing the 26.2 miles. 

“This year, the fifth since I went into remission, marks the milestone for cancer survivors, as it is accepted as an indicator that the chances of the disease returning are significantly low. 

“To be able to raise funds for a charity like the ACLT, a charity with one of its primary aims to spread awareness of blood cancer, in addition to supporting families who are living with the diagnosis of a loved one, fills me with complete joy! 

“I hope to have the support of the general public and hear their cheers of ‘Run, Eddie, Run’ whilst I’m out training and on April 22.”

MILESTONE: Eddie at the BBC

Nestor first began training for the 2007 Marathon, but he abandoned his position after finding a lump at the top of his thigh, which subsequently led to him being diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma – a type of cancer that affects cells in the lymphatic system. 

Subsequently, Nestor has become a father, is currently in remission, and is ready to take on his lifelong ambition of running in one of the most gruelling events on the sports calendar, whilst attempting to raise over £20,012 for the ACLT, also celebrating the 2012 Olympic Year. 

Nestor will set himself weekly challenges until the week leading up to the Marathon, announcing each challenge on his week day drive time show, which airs between 5pm – 7pm, to further encourage members of the public to donate through his Virgin Money Giving fundraising page.

Orin Lewis OBE, CEO and co-founder of the ACLT, said: “The five-year anniversary for any cancer survivor is a significant one. To have Eddie celebrate his special year by running the marathon whilst raising vital funds for the ACLT is a complete honour.”

To make a donation of £3, text ‘ACLT EDDIE’ to 70300.

* For more information, please visit Eddie’s Facebook event page: ‘Run Eddie Run’ / Twitter: @EddieNestor