Sunrise-on-Sea parkrun turns into vibrant pink for cancer

The weekly coastal run turned into a vibrant sea of pink as the Sunrise-on-Sea parkrun community rallied together in support of cancer awareness,
honouring survivors, remembering loved ones, and celebrating life.

For former Daily Dispatch sales executive, Carol Wathen, who spent over eight years generating advertising revenue for the regional daily, said the annual event carried deep
personal significance.

Exactly 10 years ago, on October 22, Wathen received a cancer diagnosis that reshaped her world.

“It was a diagnosis that changed my life, tested my family and brought us face to
face with the possibility of losing so much – my children almost losing their mother, my
husband, his wife, and for me, the life I had always known,” Wathen said.

“Today, thanks to the love, care and unwavering support of my family, doctors, cancer
support organisations and the wonderful friends I have made over the years at parkrun, I stand strong.”

Wathen expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Sunrise-on-Sea parkrun community for
embracing the cause every year by turning the event pink in solidarity with those affected by cancer.

“Cancer does not discriminate. No one is immune, there are no guarantees, and no particular lifestyle can offer complete protection against a cancer diagnosis,” Wathen said.

“At some stage in our lives, cancer will touch most of us, whether personally or through someone we love.

“This is why supporting organisations that provide care, treatment and support to cancer
patients and their families is so important.

Parkrunners of all ages enthusiastically embraced the theme, turning out in every
shade of pink imaginable.

Some runners took the spirit to the next level, with the bravest participants donning
pink tutus skirts to show their support for a cause that hits close to home for many local
families.

For Wathen and her fellow runners, the morning was far more than a routine 5km run – it
was a powerful statement of hope, community strength, and ongoing support for cancer
relief efforts.

“For me, this was about so much more than wearing pink.

“It was about celebrating life, recognising the strength of those still fighting, remembering
those we have lost and acknowledging the people and organisations who walk alongside us on this journey,” Wathen said.

“A sea of pink, a community united, and a reminder that together we can make a difference.”