Son who turned to Cancer Connections after losing mum takes on treadmill Great North Run for South Shields charity

Kris Lee, of Whiteleas, first turned to Cancer Connections for help two years ago and says he’s never looked back.

The 31-year-old, who lost his mum to breast cancer on Christmas Day 2006, was advised to visit the charity after struggling with his mental health in the years after her death.

Now a volunteer with the team, Kris says he probably ‘wouldn’t be here’ if it wasn’t for their support.

"When I lost my mum I lost my best friend,” said Kris, who was 18 at the time.

"I really struggled and kept everything to myself. I needed some help and was told to have a chat with someone at Cancer Connections – two year’s down the line I have never left.”

He added: "All of the staff members and volunteers are like family to me.”

After finishing the Great North Run for the charity last year, he was due to take part in the 40th anniversary event in September, which was cancelled earlier this year.

Instead he has challenged himself to complete the half-marathon on a treadmill as part of a fundraising event at the Cancer Connections centre in Whiteleas.

Kris is hoping the event will take place in the week leading up to Sunday, September 13 – the day the race should have gone ahead.

He is now training every day, pounding the pavements as well as spending time in the gym.

“A lot of charities have taken a massive hit due to the pandemic, Cancer Connections’ funds are 30 percent down on what they usually would be - I wanted to do something to help,” he said.

"It’s going to be really tough, but the training is helping with my mental health too, and when it gets hard I’m just going to keep pushing through and remember why I’m doing it.

"The charity has had such a massive impact on my life.

"I’m helping them, but it’s nothing compared to how they have helped me.”

Donate to Kris’ Just Giving page

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