“I want to show my support for other people who have lost a parent, spouse, child, or friend.” – Francesca’s Story

For Francesca D’Arrigo, 22, from Milan, Italy, the Cancer Research UK London Winter Run is more than just a run – it’s a deeply personal journey. This February, Francesca will lace up her trainers to honour the memory of her father, Giuseppe, who tragically passed away in the summer of 2024 after a four-year battle with lung cancer at just 56 years old. 

“My dad was the best and strongest man I will ever know,” Francesca shares. “Even during such a difficult and cruel time, he never lost hope. He kept doing the things he loved most, like riding his mountain bike and playing golf, always with a big smile on his face. He taught me what it means to live life to the fullest, even in the face of adversity.” 

Francesca’s decision to participate in the Cancer Research UK London Winter Run stems from her desire to honour her father’s memory while supporting others who have experienced the heartbreak of losing a loved one to cancer. 

“I know my family isn’t the only one to have suffered such a tragic loss,” she says. “I want to show my support for other people who have lost a parent, spouse, child, or friend. This run is my way of helping people realise how important it is to support Cancer Research UK and other charities that could give families more time with their loved ones.” 

Before signing up, Francesca had never been much of a runner. However, she embraced the challenge to channel her grief into something positive. 

“Everyone copes with grief differently,” she explains. “For me, I realised I needed a healthy distraction. Running has given me an outlet to release tension and focus my energy.” 

Francesca began training in mid-October alongside her mum, Lisa, and aunt, Marie. “It’s been harder than I thought, but training together has been incredibly motivating,” she says. “Some days, it’s difficult to stay focused, especially during such a tough time, but having their support makes all the difference.” 

Completing the Winter Run with her mum and aunt holds special significance for Francesca. “My mum has been a rock for all of us throughout these years, especially for my dad,” she says. “It means so much to run this race with her.” 

Francesca’s fundraising efforts have already raised over £500, with friends and family rallying behind her. “It may be a small contribution in the grand scheme of things, but I hope it will make a difference,” she says. 

For Francesca, this run is about more than crossing the finish line. It’s about honouring her dad’s memory and living life as he would have wanted her to – with strength, determination, and courage. 

“I want to make my dad proud, and I know that if he were here, he would be,” she says. “He wouldn’t want me to sit around and be sad. He’d want me to step outside of my comfort zone – just like this run.” 

Join Francesca and thousands of others at the Cancer Research UK London Winter Run. With your support, we’re funding vital, life-saving research that’s helping us beat cancer.