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A woman is set to run the London Marathon to honour her friend who died of cancer. Claire White, 49, from Barnham, will lace up her running shoes on April 27 to run the marathon in memory of her friend and running partner, Chantal Neal, from Bognor Regis. Chantal died in April 2024, after being diagnosed with a rare type of cancer at the age of 50.
Claire plans to raise both awareness and funds for The Christie Charity, which supports research into Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma (ACC), the cancer that claimed Chantal's life. Claire, Chantal & Joseph. (Image: The Christie Charity) Chantal's marathon dream fuels Claire's determination, with plans to raise awareness and funds for The Christie Charity, supporting the renowned Christie cancer hospital's research.
ACC, a slow-growing cancer that primarily develops in the salivary glands but can also appear in the respiratory tract, skin, breast, and other secretory glands, is recognised for its nerve and bloodstream spread, often leading to late recurrences and distant metastases, particularly in the lungs. Diagnosis is commonly delayed, and treatment options are limited. Chantal lived in Bognor Regis with her husband and, upon her cancer's return in 2023, her family connected with The Christie hospital in Manchester and its specialists, Dr Rob Metcalf and Dr Joe Haigh.
Claire & Chantal. (Image: The Christie Charity) Chantal's sister, Faye, explained: "The knowledge we gained from The Christie meant we had a better understanding of ACC. "If we’d had the benefit of this knowledge when Chantal was first diagnosed in March 2020, it would have helped to push for more relevant and thorough scanning in the years to follow, not just a mammogram of the original site.
" Claire described Chantal as "a vibrant and inspiring woman with family at the centre of her world." She was known for her positive energy, and smile that lit up every room. "Chantal was determined and passionate about running.
"At just 4'11", she was a powerhouse who embraced life with courage and enthusiasm." As a tribute, Claire and Chantal's family arranged a series of fundraising activities for The Christie Charity to mark what would have been Chantal's 51st birthday on September 7, 2024. Claire & Chantal.
(Image: The Christie Charity) These included a Christmas raffle and bingo afternoon, organised by Chantal's mum, Maureen, and a pub quiz, set up by Chantal's sister, Emma. Claire said: "Chantal entered the London Marathon last year but was unsuccessful in gaining a place. "When she told me, she sighed saying, 'Probably for the best this year.
' "Chantal loved her running, and her car was filled with the sound of medals clinking from her countless races. "Running the London Marathon was her dream, and so it is the perfect way to celebrate her wonderful life and continue her legacy. "Chantal’s intentions have gifted me an opportunity to be the fittest and strongest I can be heading towards 50.
"After she passed away, I tested my legs on a short run, caught up in grief, I emailed The Christie Charity all about her. "I know how hard it is to gain a place in the London marathon and thought little more of it. "They called me two weeks later and said, ‘you have to run for her’.
" Josh Hughff, from The Christie Charity, said: "Chantal’s story is a testament to the power of hope, resilience, and advocacy. "Claire’s dedication to running the London Marathon in her honour is a beautiful tribute that will support vital research and help our clinical colleagues improve outcomes for those facing ACC. "We are incredibly grateful for her efforts.
" To support the work of The Christie Charity, visit their website or call 0161 446 3988..
