Oxfordshire man running London Marathon for Oxford Hospitals Charity
Following a cancer diagnosis when he was just 14, Max Komodikis now wants to give back to those who helped him
Max Komodikis journey is truly inspiring after he overcame mouth cancer at just 14, he is now gearing up to run the London Marathon for Oxford Hospitals Charity this weekend.
After originally being set a target of £3,000 by Oxford Hospitals Charity, Max has now raised more than £5,000 thanks to a host of fundraising events.
Donations from local businesses, friends, family and strangers have helped him smash his target.
He even paid tribute to his girlfriend who he said had racked up a "small fortune" selling homemade jam!
Speaking about his cancer diagnosis and the marathon Max said: When I was 14 years old, I was diagnosed with mouth cancer, now at the age of 22 I am celebrating two years of being cancer-free.
"Throughout my journey I've been fortunate to have the support of my consultant and his team at the Blenheim Head and Neck Cancer ward at the Churchill Hospital.
"Their dedication and care were nothing short of exceptional, guiding me and my family through every step of the process.
"They went above and beyond to look after my well-being through what could have been a traumatic period, but thanks to them I have been able to continue my life with minimal disruption.
"I've chosen to pay tribute to the incredible support I received by fundraising for the Oxford Hospitals Charity.
"Whilst no monetary value could truly be attributed to the support I was given, I would like to raise this money to help express my gratitude and to help others who find themselves in the same position I was.
"I've had some amazing support from local businesses including generous donations from The Marlstone Tavern in Milton, affectionately known as the ‘Pie Pub’, and the Butcher’s Arms in Balscote.
"Embarking on my first full marathon, I am looking forward to the challenge ahead, I've always thrived on pushing my limits and achieving new things, so the idea of running a marathon as well as raising money has been very exciting."