Maria Caruso

This September…

This September, I will be taking on a 50km walking challenge in support of The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity.

My motivation for taking part is deeply personal. My best friend for life was diagnosed with cancer at just age 37. What followed was an incredibly challenging journey, including intensive chemotherapy and major surgery. Throughout every stage of that journey, The Royal Marsden provided exceptional care, compassion and expertise, for which my family and I will always be grateful.

While this challenge has a personal meaning for me, I am also walking for everyone whose life has been touched by cancer. A cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming, and the road through treatment and recovery can often feel long and lonely. I want this walk to represent something more than the miles covered—it is a reminder that no one should ever have to face cancer alone.

Not everyone is fortunate enough to have family or a strong support network around them, which is why community matters so much. Together, through kindness, encouragement and support, we can remind those facing cancer that they are never alone. Every step I take is in honour of those who have fought, those who are still fighting, and the incredible healthcare professionals who dedicate their lives to helping others.

If my challenge can help raise awareness, inspire support, and contribute to the outstanding work of The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity, then every kilometre will be worth it. Together, we really can make a difference.