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• Stephen Messias

13.1 Miles for Orchid!

Stephen Messias set himself the huge challenge of running a half marathon for Orchid and raising a fantastic £6,000 After recovering from testicular cancer Stephen decided that he wanted to give something back and help other sufferers. 

Why have you chosen to support Orchid?    

In 2007 I was successfully treated for testicular cancer – not only thanks to the skill of the surgeon and oncologist, but also because I received the benefit of years of research into the treatments for cancer and the development of chemotherapy drugs. I want others to also benefit.

By raising funds for Orchid, the charity can continue its work in the fight against cancer.

You have raised a phenomenal £5,700. This is an amazing total! Have your friends and family been very supportive?

I hope to reach a total in excess of £6,000! I’ve had tremendous support not only from friends and family but also from clients and business contacts. The generosity of my donors has been incredible. I believe that the fact I have had cancer has helped me raise funds - as people have seen that successful treatments are available for a great number of cancers. By donating to Orchid my donors can help improve the treatments for cancer. This in turn will continue to improve the odds of surviving cancer.

What has been the most rewarding part of your fundraising so far? 

It’s difficult to select one element that has been the most rewarding. There have been a number of rewards: Raising more money than I could have hoped for, bringing male specific cancers to the attention of a number of people and demonstrating that cancer can be treated and life can return to normal – which I hope is re-assuring to others.

How are you feeling about running a half marathon?

I’m very much looking forward to the Run to the Beat Half Marathon. It will be the culmination of a number of months training. Not only will it enable me to raise funds but the training has had real health benefits – I’ve lost weight, reduced my blood pressure and eaten more healthily. Entering the Half Marathon has given me a target and the incentive to run and exercise.

What advice would you give to other budding fundraisers reading this?

From my own experience I’d recommend raising funds for a cause that you, a close family member or close friend have been affected by. If you believe in the charity you’ll be encouraged to raise funds and you won’t be shy to ask everyone you know to donate – after all, the money is going to a great cause.

Do a worthwhile challenge to help inspire people to donate – and let them know why raising funds for your chosen charity is important for you.

Also encourage people to Gift Aid their donations – its an easy way to raise more money.

Is there anyone in particular that you would like to thank? 

 I can’t single out anyone in particular – everyone has been incredibly supportive and generous. Orchid has made it easy for me to fund raise as it’s a great cause and the Orchid staff have supported my fund raising efforts - all I’ve had to do is run. 

If you think you can follow in Stephen's footsteps and take on a running challenge for Orchid we have places in some of the most prestigious running events in the UK and Internationally.

Take a look at our Running page for ideas on your next race!