Clydach mum who had four organs removed runs Cardiff Half Marathon

Melinda Greenacre of Clydach could barely get out of bed following an operation to have her uterus, cervix, fallopian tubes and ovaries removed last October.

This was after she was diagnosed with Lynch Syndrome, an inherited genetic condition, which increases the risk of developing cancer.

While recovering, she set herself two goals of achieving her Third Dan Black Belt in karate, and taking part in a large running event.

She completed the first in May, before successfully completing the half marathon this month.

Melinda during the Cardiff Half Marathon this month (Image: .)

Melinda said: “When I saw the advert about spaces being available for the Cardiff Half Marathon on our internal website, I decided to put my name down.

"I sent off an email enquiring about a space, secretly hoping it would be refused, so when the email came back to say I had been successful, I think I was a bit shocked!

“Prior to having surgery, I started eating healthier and getting fitter in preparation for the operation. I initially started going out walking and then walking turned into running and I manged to get up to 5k.

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"I began to enjoy it, which was why I set myself a goal to run a big race. I don’t think I ever imagined I would take part in a half marathon.

“I am very goal-orientated and with a bit of encouragement from my partner, Wayne, I decided to put everything into it. I downloaded a half marathon running app, which I followed religiously and started getting the miles in.

"I managed to build up to 10 miles and I even signed up to the Swansea Bay 10k.”

But unfortunately, just a few days before the 10k, Melinda tested positive for Covid-19 and she had to withdraw.

However on Sunday, October 2, Melinda managed to successfully complete the Cardiff Half Marathon in 2 hours 44 minutes and raised £360 for the Wales Air Ambulance.