Wirral dad's Parkrun raises thousands for cancer support centre

Mark Lightfoot was diagnosed with Glioblastoma - the most common type of primary malignant brain tumour in adults - in March.

The 63-year-old, from Prenton, took part in Parkrun at Birkenhead Park on Saturday with family and friends in aid of Maggie's Wirral - which provides free practical, emotional and social support for people living with cancer.

He completed the 5km course in 52 minutes and his efforts have raised £3,800 - smashing his original £500 target.

Mark Lightfoot with friends and family during the Parkrun at Birkenhead Park in aid of Maggie's Wirral on Saturday, October 19 (Image: Hayley Lightfoot) Mr Lightfoot told the Globe afterwards. "I'd like to thank the Parkrun Marshalls, and everyone who came to support him or donated on the day. I'm glad it's over and relieved it went without incident and reasonably well.

"Birkenhead Parkrun has been part of my fitness routine for many years, with 134 runs completed so far."

Recalling the day he was diagnosed, Mr Lightfoot said: "I was devasted, distraught and very much in need of guidance and emotional support.

"Our local Maggie's Centre at Clatterbridge has been there with me every step of the way, providing unwavering support, not just for myself, but also for Gill and the family.

Mark Lightfoot with friends and family during the Parkrun at Birkenhead Park in aid of Maggie's Wirral on Saturday, October 19 (Image: Hayley Lightfoot) "The Maggie's team have been an invaluable source of advice, guidance and reassurance all provided by their expert team, many of whom have previous experience in cancer treatment.

"Visiting Maggie's it always feels like a sanctuary, or a refuge from the anguish and distress of the illness. They have helped us navigate an incredibly difficult time, with understanding, care and compassion."

Mark Lightfoot with friends and family during the Parkrun at Birkenhead Park in aid of Maggie's Wirral on Saturday, October 19 (Image: Hayley Lightfoot) Mr Lightfoot's daughter Hayley told the Globe: "There must have been about 40 friends and family members there to support, whether that was waving and cheering from the sidelines or actually run/walking with us.

"Dad completed the 5km course in 52 minutes, and he jogged quite a lot of it which is just incredible. He's now raised over £3,800 for Maggie's which is unbelievable.

"We had the most incredible day, the support was amazing from the other parkrunners and the volunteers who host the event, cheering dad on the whole way around. It was a really emotional event for us all, but in the best way possible.

"It's also such a positive milestone for Dad and he's been in fantastic spirits since, it's so lovely to see him so happy and surrounded by all of our family and friends.

"He only set out to raise £500, but has now raised over £3,800 for Maggie's which is unbelievable.

"What my dad is doing by participating in the Parkrun raises awareness on multiple levels, and I believe his story deserves to be shared.

"Firstly, raising awareness of brain tumours is crucial - before his diagnosis, we had no idea what his early symptoms meant.

"While we sadly couldn’t have prevented it and there’s no cure, the shock and uncertainty of it all has been overwhelming. I think it’s important for others to be aware of how life-changing this can be.

"He's also raising awareness about the Maggie's Centres, which offer vital support to cancer patients and their families.

"Before this, we didn’t even know these centres existed, and their help has been incredible throughout his treatment."

To support Mr Lightfoot's continued fundraising efforts, go to: https://maggies.enthuse.com/pf/mark-lightfood