“I’ll cross that line for Fariba" - Hampshire man prepares for Race for Life

A GRIEVING husband whose wife died of bowel cancer at the age of just 36 will be among almost 5,000 people taking part in Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life events in Portsmouth this weekend.

Craig Foster, from Waterlooville, who described his wife Fariba as ‘selfless, caring and thoughtful’ believes he’s doing what Fariba would have done - fundraising for life-saving cancer research - by taking on the 5k.

It’s one of five events taking place on Southsea Common including the Pretty Muddy Kids and adults obstacle race this Saturday, followed by the 3k, 5k and 10k events on Sunday.

Craig, who is one of a number of friends and family supporting Race for Life this year, said: “I’m not a runner and I haven’t run since school, but I’ll make sure I cross that line for Fariba and to stop someone else having to watch a loved one go through what she did.

“Cancer takes no prisoners and it doesn’t matter who you are or from what walk of life, everyone is affected in some way. Fariba died just six months after she was diagnosed and even though it was a short time, it was the worst time and no-one should be in that situation.”

Fariba, who worked as a dental receptionist, had lived with ulcerative colitis since she was 18 when she had three-quarters of her bowel removed. Ulcerative colitis is a chronic bowel disease that causes inflammation in the bowel. Having this disease for many years increases your risk of bowel cancer.

People with ulcerative colitis, and some other bowel conditions, may be invited for regular surveillance with a colonoscopy. It’s recommended you speak to your doctor for advice.

Craig, who’d been with Fariba for 12 years, said: “Fariba had managed her condition well for around 17 years with minimal hospital visits but for the last 18 months, she’d been having a few issues. Eventually it was decided doctors would remove the bowel completely to improve her quality of life and she had surgery last summer.

“She went for what she thought was a routine follow-up appointment after her operation, but she was told the devastating news that she had stage 3 bowel cancer. “They explained they that when they removed the remaining part of her bowel they had discovered the disease and tests confirmed their worst fears.”

“Before starting chemotherapy treatment we managed to go on a pre-planned trip to Canada for a family wedding and I’m so glad we went to make those memories as that became our last trip away together.

“Fariba began treatment and was a real trooper. She refused to let it hold her back and spent as much time as she could with her nieces and nephews who she adored.

“At Christmas time, I was taken to one side to be told the chemo hadn’t worked the way they had hoped and that the cancer had continued to spread throughout her abdomen.

“I felt completely useless in that moment and when I went to see Fariba she didn’t want me to be upset and was typically more concerned about me.

“I cared for her at hospital along with one of her friends and she spent her last few days at the Rowan Hospice in Purbrook who were incredible during such a tough time.

“Her funeral showed just how much she meant to everyone and so many people came that she had met throughout her life. It was really touching.

“Now I’m trying to live for both of us. Fariba was such a giving person so by taking part in Race for Life I’m doing what I can to help others facing cancer.”

Craig, who will be wearing Fariba’s picture on his t-shirt this weekend, has raised £1,085 and you can make a donation here: https://fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/page/craigs-race-for-life-11983531

Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life, in partnership with headline sponsor Standard Life, part of Phoenix Group, raises millions of pounds every year to help beat cancer by funding crucial research.  

People of all ages and abilities are welcome to take part in Race for Life Portsmouth. On Saturday, mums, dads, sons, daughters, grandparents and friends can choose from Pretty Muddy - a 5k mud-splattered obstacle course.  There is also a Pretty Muddy Kids option. On Sunday anyone of any age can take part in a 3k, 5k or 10k course.

Elisa Mitchell, Cancer Research UK’s spokesperson in the South East, said: “We are grateful to Craig and all his family and friends for their support and know Fariba’s story will make an impact on everyone who hears it.  

“No matter how cancer affects us, life is worth racing for. Sadly nearly 1 in 2 of us will get cancer in our lifetime. Race for Life has the power not only to transform lives, but to save them. We’re proud that Race for Life has already helped double survival rates in the UK.   

“We’d love for as many people as possible across Portsmouth and beyond to join us at Race for Life. There is an event for everyone and we mean everyone. Walk, jog, run or take on the course however it suits best. It’s a chance to feel the power of moving together with fellow Race for Lifers and to treasure that moment of crossing the finish line.  

“Whether people are living with cancer, are taking part in honour of or in memory of a loved one with the disease, or are in it for the medals or just for the fun of fundraising, there is a place for everyone.”  

Since it began in 1994, more than 10 million people have taken part in Race for Life, funding 30 years of hope and progress.  The UK’s biggest fundraising event series, which raised £33m in 2023, is returning with a shift in attitude this year, determined to shine light on the life-saving research that Race for Life has funded and issuing a rallying cry for people to sign up to support the scientific breakthroughs of tomorrow.

Money raised has helped develop radiotherapy which benefits more than 130,000 people with cancer in the UK every year. Cancer Research UK funded scientists led the development of the Human Papillomavirus Virus vaccine, which is expected to prevent almost 90 per cent of cervical cancers in the UK. The charity also funded many large clinical trials looking at the effectiveness of the drug tamoxifen and the research shaped the way the drug is used to treat breast cancer today.  

Andy Curran, Chief Executive of Standard Life, part of Phoenix Group, said: “We are incredibly proud to continue as headline sponsor for Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life, with the opportunity to encourage participation across the country. 

“By working to raise funds for life-saving research, we can move towards a future where people live longer and healthier lives, free of cancer.” 

To enter, visit raceforlife.org