When Amy lost her mother to gynaecological cancer, she made a promise to give back. That promise carried her 42 kilometres through the Sydney Marathon 2026 — keeping her mum’s memory alive, raising awareness of gynae cancer, and raising vital research funds for AGCF.
Last year, my world was turned upside down when my mother was diagnosed with terminal gynae cancer and, shortly after, passed away. Mum was only 55. It was a heartbreaking and incredibly difficult time for me and my family.
Before she passed, I promised her I would do something to give back and help others going through what we went through.
So I signed up for the Sydney Marathon. I don’t think Mum would ever have imagined that promise would mean me running — let alone running a marathon. I’m not sure I believed I could do it either.
Training was a huge challenge, physically and mentally, but every step felt like a meaningful way to honour my beautiful mother.
In August 2026, I crossed the finish line, having raised awareness and more than $3,477 for the Australian Gynaecological Cancer Foundation, which supports gynae cancer awareness, research and better outcomes for women affected by these cancers.
I’m proud of myself, and of the memories I will carry forever in my head and my heart. I’m proud that I kept my promise and I hope that my support gives women like my mum more time.
Thank you AGCF team for all the support and for everything you guys do for the world!
Amy Howell
What an amazingly effort Amy. The AGCF team is proud to support her and congratulate her on her outstanding efforts honouring his mum. Many of us would struggle to run several metres, let alone 42km!
You’re a champion Amy, your mum would be so proud of you. Well done from the AGCF team. Sharing hope.
If you’d like to donate to life-saving gynae cancer research, please donate here or directly via bank deposit to:
AGCF – ANZ Bank
BSB: 012 003
Account: 2678 02408
