A Lancaster-born woman who overcame a brain tumour shortly after losing her mother to cancer is preparing to walk 100 kilometres for charity. Alexa Holland has already raised more than £20,000 for The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity ahead of the challenge this weekend.
The 39-year-old will take on the Lake District Ultra Challenge between June 6 and June 7, in memory of her mother, Jasmin, who passed away on January 26, 2025, after a five-year battle with ovarian cancer.
Just a few months later, and only three days before she was due to take part in last year's event, Alexa was diagnosed with a brain tumour. She underwent major surgery weeks later to remove a six-centimetre benign tumour, and her scans thankfully remain clear today.
Now, she is determined to cross the start line and complete the distance she missed out on last year. The route holds a special meaning for Alexa, whose family ties to the area run deep.
A Mother's Resilience
Alexa said: "My mum's resilience was extraordinary. Despite three rounds of gruelling chemotherapy, major surgery and numerous blood transfusions, she faced every step with courage and determination. Thanks to her strength, and the incredible care and pioneering treatments at The Royal Marsden, we were given five more precious years with her."
"Watching the way she faced her illness gave me the strength to overcome my own brain tumour diagnosis and treatment. Whenever this challenge gets tough, I will remind myself that if she could endure all of that, I can handle a few blisters and sore feet. Raising money for The Royal Marsden is my way of honouring her legacy and supporting the life-changing work they do."
A Special Route
The event will see thousands of people walk, jog, or run up to 100 kilometres through spectacular scenery. Starting and finishing in Kendal, the route passes the edge of Lake Windermere, where the family took their final photo together.
Alexa said: "One of the photos I treasure most is of me, my mum, dad and sister together at Langdale Chase on Windermere. It's incredibly special knowing I'll be able to see that spot during the challenge; it feels like she'll be with me every step of the way."
Her father owns a jewellery business in Lancaster, which her sister now runs and where her mother played an integral role.
Last year, the event raised £750,000 for various charities across the UK. Now, just a year after her surgery, Alexa is embracing the weekend as a true celebration of life.
A Celebration of Life
Alexa said: "There was a time when I couldn't imagine what the future would look like without my mum, and there were moments when I wasn't sure I could overcome my own brain tumour without her strength and support. Watching the way she faced cancer with such courage taught me more about resilience than I could ever put into words."
"Standing here about to take on 100 kilometres is something I never take for granted. This challenge is for my mum, for my family, and for everyone who has faced adversity. Her example showed me that resilience isn't about never struggling or never being afraid – it's about finding the strength to keep going when every part of you wants to stop."
Supporters can donate to the cause by visiting the official page online at 100km for Jasmin in support of The Royal Marsden. A limited number of places remain for the event, and more details can be found at www.ultrachallenge.com/lake-district-challenge/.
