Cancer survivor to complete 24-hour treadmill challenge in Barnstaple for ChemoHero

A Barnstaple cancer survivor is gearing up to conquer an epic trial - Andy Hood is taking on a 24-hour treadmill challenge at Platform Gym in the town, starting at 10am on Saturday, January 27 and concluding at 10am on Sunday, January 28.

This marathon of endurance is not only a personal triumph but a remarkable effort to raise awareness and vital funds for ChemoHero, a charity that touches the lives of cancer patients with Boxes of Kindness they are given while undergoing treatment.

Andy’s motivation to this challenge is deeply personal. Having faced a testicular cancer diagnosis in 2021, he understands the physical and emotional toll cancer treatment inflicts.

ChemoHero, founded by the late Lisa Wallis during her own battle with breast cancer, continues Lisa’s legacy by gifting thoughtful Boxes of Kindness to individuals undergoing chemotherapy, providing comfort and care during challenging times.

In Andy’s words: “Cancer came out of the blue for me. Never had I expected to receive such a diagnosis, but there it was, black and white in front of me. Running stopped.”

The goal of Andy’s 24-hour challenge is to support ChemoHero in delivering these invaluable Boxes of Kindness. As he said: “I am fundraising so ChemoHero can keep delivering these Boxes of Kindness to those receiving cancer treatment.”

The boxes offer a range of goodies, with the value of £150-170. More than 40 different items go into a box of kindness, some has been donated, some sponsored, but most is fundraised by the North Devon community. 

It roughly costs the charity £80 to 85 a box, so Andy said knowing how much he has raised so far to support ChemoHero is a great achievement. 

Adding a touch of celebrity flair to the challenge, Andy will be running for 24 hours while sporting kaleidoscope sunglasses generously sent by actress and comedian Dawn French.

Reflecting on the unexpected support, Andy added: “I commented on her social media post that these would be amazing for my 24-hour treadmill run, and to my surprise, Dawn replied, inviting me to send her my address.”

The sunglasses, which have a quirky kaleidoscope lens, were a gift from Dawn after Andy shared details of his upcoming treadmill run on social media.

Andy said: “Two days later, and the glasses arrive along with a wonderful note. I’m touched beyond words. Not only will I wear these during the run, but I will make some fun videos and take some photos with the glasses leading up to the run.”

The response from the local community in Barnstaple has been nothing short of remarkable. Andy has expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming support, including encouraging messages on social media and expected visits from non-gym members during his 24 hour run. He emphasised the significance of community support and said: “When you dig under the surface, we are a lovely community.”

Reflecting on his previous treadmill run in Green Lanes Shopping Centre, Barnstaple, Andy said: “The number of people who came in and chat and support was great!”

Youngsters in the community, often misunderstood, have shown tremendous support, challenging stereotypes and contributing to the sense of community spirit. Andy recalled: “The group of youngsters have been so supportive. They wanted photographs, and unfortunately, they normally get a bad rep, but the young people were great and very supportive.”

Acknowledging the physical demands of a 24-hour run, Andy has undergone much preparation. Training year-round for running endurance, he has spent additional time on the treadmill to adapt to its consistent terrain.

The supportive atmosphere at the gym has been instrumental, with a fellow gym member DJing during his run, a Chinese takeaway being delivered, and various entertainment options, including movies and podcasts.

Sharing insights into his preparation, Andy said: “The same position on a treadmill all the time is hard on your body, hard on your hips. And the mindset, I need to figure out how to occupy myself.”

In terms of support during the run, he said: “Members of the gym have been super supportive, one gym member is DJing during my 24-hour run. A Chinese takeaway is being brought in the middle of the night too.”

Beyond the 24-hour challenge, Andy has ambitious plans for continued support. Upcoming events include a charity tie-up with OddBalls in April and a self-designed 50k ultra in London, with visits to Krispy Kreme stores across the capital. 

Sharing details about future events, Andy said: “I have a charity event in the diary, my 50k Donut Run for Oddballs, who support various charities as well as making ChemoHero socks, which is a nice tie-into my January event."

Andy has extended a massive thank you to everyone supporting the cause. He said that "the goal is not just about the run but about making the challenging cancer journey a bit better for those going through it."

As Andy gears up for this remarkable 24-hour treadmill challenge, the community eagerly anticipates witnessing his endurance and determination in action, all in the name of compassion and support for those battling cancer.

To read more on Andy and his running click here. 

To sponsor Andy click here.