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Max’s marathon run will show gratitude to hospital for care and support
19/04/2024
Now cancer free, Max was diagnosed with mouth cancer at the age of 14
This weekend runners from across our area will be heading to London to take part in the London Marathon. Amongst them is 22 year old Max Komodikis from Deddington who is running his first marathon for the Oxford Hospitals Charity.
When he was just 14 years old Max faced the daunting diagnosis of mouth cancer. He was treated and supported at the Blenheim Head and Neck Cancer ward at the Churchill Hospital.
Max said: “Their dedication and care were nothing short of exceptional, guiding me and my family through every step of the process. They went above and beyond to look after my well-being through what could have been a traumatic period, but thanks to them I have been able to continue my life with minimal disruption.”
Max is now celebrating two years of being cancer-free. He’s chosen to pay tribute to those who provided his treatment, care and support by fundraising for the hospital’s charity.
So far his marathon fundraising has brought in over £5,300 with support from friends, family and people he has never met. Max’s girlfriend has even been selling homemade jam to add to the funds.
Max said: “Whilst no monetary value could truly be attributed to the support I was given, I would like to raise this money to help express my gratitude and to help others who find themselves in the same position I was.
“I have had some amazing support from local businesses including generous donations from The Marlstone Tavern in Milton, affectionately known as the ‘Pie Pub’, and the Butcher’s Arms in Balscote. The Butcher’s Arms also hosted a charity horse racing night to help further raise money. Bengal Spice of Deddington greatly helped with fundraising by hosting two very successful charity curry nights. To all of these local businesses, I am extremely grateful.”
Max is hoping to complete the London marathon in around 4 hours 20 minutes, but isn’t putting too much importance on how long it will take.
He said: “If you’d asked me what I’d be doing a year ago today I wouldn’t have thought it would have been this! It should be good fun. The weather is looking nice and sunny. I’m looking forward to it.”
Claire Hughes, Events Coordinator at Oxford Hospitals Charity, said: “A huge good luck to Max and all of our amazing runners this weekend. Max has already exceeded his £5,000 fundraising target and is on track to raise even more!’
“We are in awe of everyone who has chosen to take on the London Marathon and we will be there to cheer them on along the route.”
Anyone wanting to donate to Max’s marathon fundraiser can do so here.
Published: by Banbury FM Newsteam