Mark Bamford was away playing golf in Liverpool when he found a lump on his testicle. It was diagnosed in 3 days and operated on within 3 weeks. Mark was positive throughout and even ran London Marathon in the April after his operation.
His obsession with the London Marathon began in 2009
and he has now completed it 9 times, fundraising every time for charities close to his heart.
This obsession then propagated in triathlon. Mark saw this as a great challenge and after defeating cancer, it was just another test. But he reflects that the power of ‘anything is possible’ was such a driver for him and he completed his first sprint triathlon in the spring of 2017.
In 2018, Mark completed his first Ironman event in Marbella 70.3, followed by Ironman UK (Bolton) 10 weeks later!
Mark said, “I see it as a great honour being able to compete in these events with the support of my family and friends. But the inspiration I can give others is the biggest reward.”
Mark has been involved with the MOVE Cancer Charity since 2021, he has raised over £7,000 for MOVE (5K Your Way), and has now become the lead ambassador for them in Swansea Park Run.
5K Your Way, Move Against Cancer is a community-based initiative, provided by Move Charity. Their aim is to encourage those living with and beyond cancer, their families and friends, and those working in cancer services to join their local 5k Your Way group at designated parkrun events on the last Saturday of every month.
Mark explains that this initiative starts at Swansea Park Run on the 30th March. They have 10 ambassadors including 6 doctors and Kevin Jones.
“I’m so excited about this and the support it’s going to give to the Swansea community. MOVE is linked with Maggie’s cancer centre and anyone who has been affected by cancer can join us on the last Saturday of every month and run, walk or jog any part of the 5k with us. I, for one, know the power of sharing your journey.”
Mark has always been extremely passionate about telling his story. He has encountered so many men that have had their own worries, who have talked to him about his story which helped them seek the right treatment, instead of being too afraid to talk.
This year, Mark will be competing in Ironman 70.3 Mallorca and Swansea, Ironman Wales and Chicago Marathon for MOVE.
“I just hope I can support, inspire, and encourage others through their journeys and promote active recovery through their rehabilitation.”
