Claire breaks a sweat for Cansa
To raise funds for CANSA, Durban North resident, Claire de Sylva will be running 29km on her 29th birthday.
WITH the Comrades Marathon slowly approaching, thousands of athletes are using every opportunity to squeeze in as much training as possible to get their bodies in tip-top condition for the massive annual race in May.
Durban North resident, Claire de Sylva (28), who will once again be competing in this year’s Comrades, has decided to use her training even more effectively. On her 29th birthday the proud mum will be running 29km to raise funds and awareness for CANSA.
“This event came about because I had an idea that, as part of my Comrades training, I would run along the M19, and then I thought it would be awesome to rope in CANSA and spread some love,” she said.
According to the enthusiastic athlete, the aim of the event is more targeted towards raising awareness than funds.
“People think they can only contribute financially, but their time is just as valuable. The aim is to remind people that CANSA is still around and is involved in some phenomenal support of cancer patients and their families, and still requires assistance from the community to continue their work,” she explained.
The day will also be about remembrance, she added. “We have all been affected by loss. We have all lost a loved one, be it to cancer or other causes, so this day it also about paying tribute to the lives of our loved ones who have died. It is not supposed to be a sad day, but rather a day of celebration,” she said.
De Sylva lost a friend to cancer, and her mother also died 14 years ago (two days after her birthday) during a hijacking.
De Sylva will be running from the CANSA’s Durban office at 619 Umbilo Road, along the M19, finishing at her father’s offices in Westmead on Thursday, 26 March.
Along the way she will be stopping at various offices to sell birthday cake, ribbons, and cancer head wraps. People will also be able to write an inspirational message or attach a ribbon onto her shirt in memory of passed loved ones.
Residents are also encouraged to take selfies with their cakes, ribbons and/or wraps, and to post them on Facebook or other social media platforms to spread the awareness.
People who would like assist are urged to ‘like’ the Durban CANSA page and follow Claire’s Birthday Run.
“I am not the most athletic person, but running has completely transformed my life. Not only has it helped me become more healthy, but through my actions I have inspired others to take on running as well,” she said.
