The March Charge is a cause close to Ryan Hurst’s heart. Last year, his late wife Rebecca, who had stage 4 cancer, completed the Charge with 11 friends and raised an inspiring $10,701.
Rebecca sadly passed away at age 26 in November, and Ryan is taking on The March Charge in her memory to raise money and raise awareness of ovarian cancer.
“I wanted to do this because I want Bec’s legacy and message to live on. I feel it is my responsibility now to continue what she started. I know that it would make her proud of me and happy.”
Ryan says he is inspired by the incredible resilience shown by his wife.
“Rebecca was diagnosed with low grade serous ovarian cancer late April 2019, which involved numerous surgeries including an eight-hour debulking surgery to remove a brick sized tumour,” he says.
“She also had multiple rounds of chemo. The strength and courage she displayed during this time was absolutely inspirational – she never gave up right until the end.”
Despite the physical challenges of surgery, Rebecca channelled her experience into raising funds for cancer research and raising awareness of ovarian cancer.
“Bec was inspired to take part in The March Charge to raise as much awareness as possible and also raise as much money as possible for research into an early detection test so that no other woman has to walk this path,” Ryan says.
I wanted to do this because I want Bec’s legacy and message to live on.
– Ryan Hurst
In the lead up to The March Charge last year, Rebecca said: “It will be challenging, as I’ve just had surgery, but I want to show that people with cancer can still thrive and participate in physical activities.”
Ryan will not be alone in doing The March Charge. Joining him is Andrew Alkemade, a cancer survivor and a close friend to him and Rebecca.
“Andrew and I are a part of Average Joes,” he says. “He himself went through his own cancer battle at the same time as Bec and was really keen to jump onboard Average Joes to raise money for cancer research and awareness.”
The duo initially set themselves a $1,000 fundraising goal, but thanks to the support of friends and family, they have raised over $6000.
“We would love to get to $10,000,” Ryan says.
As part of their challenge, he and Andrew plan to run 100km, with a few long walks included along the way. If you want to join Ryan in raising funds for life-saving cancer research, sign up to The March Charge. You can also support Ryan and Andrew by donating on their fundraising page.
