At just 21 years old, Emily from Woodbridge is taking on her very first London Marathon – and she’s doing it for someone incredibly special.
Running in memory of Nicky
Emily is running in memory of her beloved nan, Nicky, who was diagnosed with advanced, inoperable lung cancer in 2017 despite being a fit, healthy non-smoker. Nicky fought the disease with extraordinary strength for five years, taking part in clinical trials and ongoing treatment, and never once allowing it to define her. She sadly passed away in November 2022 at just 53 years old.
“I decided to run the London Marathon in memory of my incredible nan, Nicky. Watching her battle this disease was both heartbreaking and inspiring. I’m running to honour her, raise awareness, and support the amazing work of Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation. Every mile I run is for her.”
Seeing her nan’s resilience first-hand is what drives Emily’s determination to raise awareness and challenge the stigma around lung cancer.
Following in family footsteps
This year’s marathon will be Emily’s first ever 26.2 miles – but she’s not the first in her family to take on the challenge. Her mum, Susannah Pryke, ran the London Marathon for Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation in 2022.
“Family are all very supportive. My mum ran the marathon for Roy Castle back in 2022, so I’m following in her footsteps.”
Outside of training, Emily is a university student training to work with children. Balancing studies, placements and marathon preparation hasn’t been easy.
“My life is very all over the place, so with this on top it’s been extra difficult – but so worth it. I’ve always loved running and keeping fit, but never this far!”
Pushing through challenges
Training hasn’t been without setbacks. Emily has battled injuries along the way, but after finding the right physio, she’s back on track and has a half-marathon lined up as part of her preparation.
“The biggest challenge has been balancing training with everyday life while building up the mileage. The longer runs really test you physically and mentally, but it’s also emotional knowing why I’m doing it. Some days are tough, but reminding myself who I’m running for puts everything into perspective.”
On the hardest training days, she thinks of her nan.
“Whenever training feels hard, I think about my nan’s strength. She never gave up, so neither will I.”
One of her proudest moments so far? Completing her longest run and realising she’s capable of more than she ever imagined.
More than just a marathon
For Emily, running for Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation is deeply personal.
“They were so important to my nan and our family, and I’ve seen first-hand the impact their support and research has. It feels incredibly meaningful to give back, raise awareness, and help challenge the stigma around lung cancer. This isn’t just a marathon for me – it’s so personal.”
She admits she’s nervous about the unknown on marathon day, particularly those final miles and the possibility of hitting ‘the wall’. But she’s even more excited for the atmosphere and crossing the finish line.
“I can’t wait to run through London with her in my heart and make her proud.”
With her whole family cheering her on, and a rock-heavy playlist powering her round the course, Emily will be dedicating every single mile to her nan.
Turning pain into purpose
Emily hopes supporters understand just how much their donations mean.
“Their support isn’t just helping me get to the start line – it’s helping fund vital research, raise awareness, and support families facing lung cancer right now. Every donation, message and share genuinely means the world. It turns something painful into something powerful.”
To anyone affected by lung cancer, Emily has a heartfelt message:
“You’re not alone. I’ve seen how devastating this disease can be, but I’ve also seen incredible strength, courage and love in the face of it. There is support out there, and there are people fighting every day for better outcomes.”
If you would like to support Emily and help her reach her £2,200 target, you can donate via her fundraising page and be part of every mile she runs in memory of Nicky.