A man has continued pursuing his marathon ambition despite receiving a cancer diagnosis.

Ben Couldwell, who lives in Eastbourne, is getting ready to compete in the London Marathon on April 26 while raising money for Lymphoma Action.

He learned he had follicular lymphoma, a type of blood cancer, in 2021.

Currently Mr Couldwell is undergoing surveillance rather than treatment and attends routine medical appointments.

When he discovered his condition, he explained it came as a complete surprise, as he believes it does for most individuals facing a cancer diagnosis.

He aims to transform a challenging situation into something constructive by taking on this endurance challenge.

He noted that managing lymphoma affects people in subtle but persistent ways.

Preparing for the London Marathon has become his method of demonstrating to himself that he remains capable, continues progressing and maintains agency over his life.

He decided to run for Lymphoma Action because their assistance has been invaluable to him since his diagnosis.

Managing cancer while under active surveillance can seem daunting, and Lymphoma Action offers the guidance, connection and comfort that individuals like himself depend on.

They genuinely comprehend what life with lymphoma entails.

Mr Couldwell mentioned that the marathon represents something well beyond his usual boundaries.

He expressed that completing the race will hold greater significance than any other achievement, as it will confirm his ability to tackle challenges voluntarily rather than only facing those imposed by his condition.

To contribute to Mr Couldwell’s fundraising efforts, supporters can visit justgiving.com/page/ben-couldwell-2.

Lymphoma Action serves as the UK’s primary organisation focused on assisting those impacted by lymphoma.

Laura Thompson, Challenge Events Fundraiser at Lymphoma Action, stated that the charity deeply appreciates Ben’s backing and looks forward to encouraging him on race day.

Annually, over 18,000 UK residents receive a lymphoma diagnosis, making it the most prevalent form of blood cancer.

Through the generosity of supporters such as Ben, the organisation can ensure individuals can manage a lymphoma diagnosis with access to information, assistance and community, guaranteeing no one confronts lymphoma in isolation.