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Harrogate nurse takes on double marathon challenge for pancreatic cancer

Wednesday, 17 December 2025 09:56

Andrea Stark will run and swim 26.2 miles for Pancreatic Cancer UK.

A Harrogate woman is preparing to take on a demanding double marathon challenge to raise money and awareness for pancreatic cancer.

Andrea Stark, an NHS nurse and Nuffield Health member based in Harrogate, is set to run the London Marathon next year.

And to help raise more money for her chosen charity - Pancreatic Cancer UK - she’ll also be completing the equivalent marathon distance in swimming.

Andrea’s fundraising efforts are motivated by personal loss.

She has lost both her mother and her uncle to pancreatic cancer, a disease known for its poor survival rates and late diagnosis.

According to Pancreatic Cancer UK, around half of those diagnosed die within three months.

Andrea is aiming to honour the memory of her relatives while supporting others affected by the disease.

She said:

“Running has become more than exercise for me. It has helped me through loss, taught me resilience, and reminded me of my own strength.

“Taking on the marathon feels like a way to combine that personal journey with something much bigger, supporting a cause that truly matters.

“Knowing that every pound I raise could help someone feel less alone, live longer, or have more options is incredibly motivating.

“I will give it my all. I won't give up. I will cross that finish line, and with your donations, we will make a huge difference to the lives of others.”

The swimming element of the challenge will involve completing the full marathon distance of 26.2 miles in the pool, in addition to the London Marathon itself.

Donations raised through the challenge will support Pancreatic Cancer UK’s research, campaigning work and specialist nursing services, which provide practical and emotional support to families during diagnosis and treatment.

Find out more about Andrea’s challenge and donate here.

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