From Her Steps to His: Running Auckland for Mum and Sarcoma NZ

Running was a huge part of Sharon's life. She ran almost every day and completed multiple half marathons including the Auckland Half, where family would gather at Victoria Park to cheer her on.

In August 2022, everything changed when Sharon was diagnosed with osteosarcoma. She quickly lost her ability to run, and soon, to walk. After initial chemotherapy, she underwent major surgery in early 2023 and was in hospital for over 2 months. When finally back home, Sharon faced her journey with incredible bravery; taking just a few steps with a walking frame took almost as much effort and strength as running 21 kilometres once did. Through sheer determination, she made amazing progress, but later that year the cancer returned. Despite her bravery and never-give-up attitude, she lost her battle in August 2024, just months short of her 50th birthday.

Ollie, her son, now 20, is honouring her memory by following in her footsteps. Having only taken up running at the start of this year, he is training for his very first full marathon, taking on the 42km Auckland course on 1 November 2026 to finish where his mum so often did at Victoria Park.

He is also aiming to raise vital funds for Sarcoma Foundation NZ, which supports families facing complex soft tissue and bone cancers. Please consider donating to support his 42km journey and Sharon's enduring legacy. Every contribution makes a difference.