MCS pupil runs 1000 miles for charity

Fifth Form pupil Oren has run a remarkable 1000 miles during 2023 to support the Oxford Children’s Hospital Charity. The culmination of this feat took place at a special event held at the iconic Sir Roger Bannister Running Track.

At the age of 13, Oren received a diagnosis of osteosarcoma, a rare form of bone cancer. Celebrating his 14^th birthday in a 12-hour operation to remove an affected bone in his skull, Oren subsequently endured 8 months of gruelling chemotherapy. During this period, he spent several days each week as an inpatient, undergoing infusions and recuperating from the treatment. The six cycles of therapy, spanning from November to June, resulted in the sacrifice of nearly an entire year of school education.

The care Oren received from Oxford Children’s Hospital was truly exceptional. The staff on Melanie’s ward (surgery) and Kamran’s ward (chemotherapy) were so kind and compassionate. As soon as he was strong enough, Oren committed to taking up running as a means to enhance his fitness and raise funds for the hospital that played such a pivotal role in his recovery. His goal was to run 1000 miles throughout the course of 2023.

Yesterday, accompanied by his entire year group, Oren completed the final three miles of his challenge at the Sir Roger Bannister Running Track on Iffley Road. The track holds historical significance as the site where Sir Roger Bannister achieved the first sub-4 minute mile in May, 1954. Oren’s efforts have raised almost £8,000 to date, with a target of £10,000.

Speaking about the charity, Oren said, “Oxford Children’s Hospital is truly amazing but that doesn’t happen by itself. It’s thanks to the dedication of all the people who work so hard keeping the place clean and operational and looking after the patients. I’d like to say a huge thank you to them and to everyone supporting this campaign.”

A link to Oren’s fundraising page can be found here.