Andy Lewis, 72, from Chorley, ran 300+ miles in January, raising over £1,200 for Rosemere Cancer Foundation, who helped his loved ones.
He took part in an annual January challenge where runners cover a distance matching the day of the month.
On January 1st, Andy ran 1 km. He ran 2 km the next day and so on. The final day was 31 km, about 20 miles. It totaled 496 km, over 308 miles.
Andy once worked in aviation. Now, he co-owns a business that links online sellers to delivery companies.
Andy said he felt like Forrest Gump and that he “just kept going.”
He started running in his 30s after a shoulder injury stopped him from playing rugby. He used to run a lot and has done many marathons. Now, he runs for fitness a few times weekly.
He can’t run fast, like Forrest again, and the challenge ended just in time because his foot got a hole on the sole. The skin rubbed away on his left foot.
Andy is a type two diabetic. He got antibiotics to prevent infection.
Andy felt it was “worth giving back” to Rosemere. He ran alone but met dog walkers, and his wife Lisa, son George, and friend Steve encouraged him. Friends and neighbors cheered his last run, and everyone who donated helped him a lot.
Steve got early stage bowel cancer last year. Andy knows him from scouting, and Rosemere Cancer Centre treated Steve. He had surgery and chemo and is recovering well now.
Andy noticed Steve’s symptoms during a trip. They matched and lived alike, eating similar foods. Andy urged him to get checked, and tests found bowel cancer early; the care was good.
They now work on a project for scouts in Birkacre together. Andy enjoys outdoor activities, including hiking and mountain walks with Lisa. She received treatment at Rosemere for her breast cancer 13 years ago.
Yvonne Stott thanked Andy for the challenge, mentioning January’s weather made it harder, especially with his injury. She wishes him recovery and thanked everyone who supported him.