Team GB 1500m runner Josh Kerr has joined Worldwide Cancer Research at the ‘starting line’ to help highlight how discovery research can lead to life-saving advances.
Josh, who returned from the United States to his hometown of Edinburgh this week, took time out of his schedule yesterday to back the charity’s World Cancer Research Day drive, sharing his hope that continued investment in science will help those affected by cancer.
Edinburgh-based charity Worldwide Cancer Research aims to end cancer by starting new cures across the world – and has funded over £200m of pioneering discovery research in over 30 countries to help with the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of cancer.
The charity is currently funding 70 active research projects – charting numerous breakthroughs, including research which resulted in a clinical trial that will aim to repurpose a psychiatric drug available on the NHS as a preventative treatment for bowel cancer.
Josh said: “With the average cancer research project taking around 20 years, it’s definitely a marathon not a sprint. But without that important first step in the research process, there can be no end to cancer.
“That’s why I’m joining Worldwide Cancer Research at the starting line today and would encourage others to get involved too.”
Josh clocked a spectacular new Scottish Record for the 1500m at 3:29.05 when in Tokyo this summer. Next, he wants to make his Commonwealth Games debut for Team Scotland at Birmingham 2022.”
Josh continued: “The start is such an important part of running; from mindset, the stance, and timing. The same goes to cancer research.
“Without charities like Worldwide Cancer Research believing in scientists all over the world and backing their bold new ideas, we wouldn’t be where we are today. Survival rates have doubled, but still 1 in 2 of us will get cancer. We can do better.”
Dr Helen Rippon, Chief Executive, Worldwide Cancer Research said: “World Cancer Research Day is a chance for us to shine a light on the incredible global effort to drive forward advancements that will change, and ultimately, save lives.”
“We are so grateful to Josh for joining us at the starting line today. Without the all-important start of first-stage research, there can be no end to cancer. That’s why we won’t stop until cancer does.”
Since it was established in 1979, the Edinburgh-based charity has funded over £200million of research in over 30 countries to start new cancer cures.
For more information about Worldwide Cancer Research or to find out how you can help start new cancer cures, please visit: