Cancer patient runs 2,853 miles for charity

A former cancer patient who has just completed a 2,853 mile (4,600 km) running challenge for charity says he is now "in the best form" of his life.

Ben Dobson from Godalming in Surrey decided to run the distance equivalent to running from New York to Los Angeles for Macmillan Cancer Support, saying he felt the need to "repay" for the support he had received from the charity.

In the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic Mr Dobson says he was diagnosed with a "very rare cancer" on the side of his face.

"During my cancer, I was lost in so many different ways, and Macmillan Cancer Support really held my hand throughout the entire process," he told BBC Radio Surrey.

Full of gratitude for Macmillan's support, the 48-year-old elected to run across the United States to raise funds for the charity.

Illness just before he was due to fly to America saw Mr Dobson change course.

"Rather than give up the whole adventure itself or rewiring it, I did the same mileage in the UK," he said.

Starting in March on the South West Coast Path, Mr Dobson and his 22lb (10kg) backpack racked up thousands of miles.

The challenge was not without adversity, he said.

While running in Cornwall Mr Dobson slipped during a storm, dislocating his shoulder in the process.

With no phone signal, and about five miles (8km) away from the nearest village, he said he needed a saviour.

Mr Dobson said: "By some amazing miracle there was a dog walker who happened to be on the beach.

"I was in quite a bad state and he drove me to Truro Hospital."

Mr Dobson, who finished the challenge in Witley near Guildford on Saturday, has so far raised £10,149 for Macmillan.

Reflecting back on his cancer journey, he admits to being a different person for the experience.

"It might sound unusual to say, but there's definitely pre-cancer and post-cancer Ben.

"The post cancer Ben is a lot more positive, outgoing, and I think open hearted," he said.

"I'm now all clear and feeling great - probably the best I ever have in my life."

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