Barnstaple man completes 24-Hour treadmill challenge for ChemoHero

A Barnstaple resident has achieved an extraordinary feat by conquering a 24-hour treadmill challenge to raise funds for ChemoHero.

The challenge, which took place on Saturday (January 27) saw Andy Hood raise more than £2,600 for charity, ChemoHero.

ChemoHero is a North Devon charity that gives a 'box of kindness' to chemotherapy patients on their first treatment. The box contains useful and luxury items. Because of Andy’s challenge, he has managed to secure approximately 30 boxes of kindness for cancer patients.

Reflecting on the demanding endeavour, Andy, who is currently in remission himself, said: "It was phenomenal. It was hard. It was very, very hard." The unique challenges of treadmill running, with its static nature, presented both physical and mental hurdles, making the accomplishment all the more significant.

Addressing the physical toll, Andy added: "Running on a treadmill is very different from road running. Your body is in a static position all the time. It's really hard, mentally and physically."

Despite the challenges, the unwavering support from those around him, including gym members, friends, and even a DJ contributing a seven-hour set, fuelled his determination.

The post-challenge conversation revealed Andy's pride in the £2,600 raised for ChemoHero, equating to approximately 30 boxes of kindness for cancer patients. He emphasised the broad impact and said: "It's not just individuals impacted by these boxes of kindness; families benefit from them and it’s going to make a real difference to their journey."

Looking forward, Andy discussed his next venture; a 50-mile run in London for The OddBalls Foundation, focusing on testicular cancer outreach. Within this run, he will see him run to 21 Krispy Kreme stores around London. 

Beyond physical achievements, Andy has become an advocate for open conversations about health and well-being. Encouraging men to prioritise their health, he remarked: "We take a great steer from the ladies in our lives. Why not have that conversation about checking ourselves?"

Speaking about his broader perspective on life, Andy said: "We live with [health concerns] all the time. Most men are particularly a ‘closed shop’ about things. I've seen that with a lot of friends of mine. I think there's definitely a platform, an opportunity."