Maxine Shackell’s journey from a “mum of four kids” with no running experience to a marathon finisher and cancer survivor highlights the power of grit, resilience, community, and support. During lockdown, she started the NHS Couch to 5K app, intending to stay active, and this simple step would later connect her with others who would become an essential part of her story.
In 2021, Maxine joined the Stevenage Striders, a running club in Stevenage, where she met Jack Cant, a fitness coach and founder of JC Fitness Performance. Jack offered a Strength and Conditioning class, which Maxine eagerly joined, hoping to improve her running skills. “It’s one of the best things I’ve ever done,” Maxine shared. The class included people from all backgrounds and abilities, creating a supportive community with Jack as a cheerleader for all.
In April 2022, Maxine’s life took an unexpected turn when she was diagnosed with breast cancer after discovering a lump. She endured seven rounds of chemotherapy at the Lister Macmillan Cancer Centre, followed by a mastectomy and five rounds of radiotherapy. Though the journey was challenging, Maxine found comfort in staying active. “The Striders supported me so much during this time,” she said, and the running group became a source of strength.
In recovery, Maxine heard about the Stevenage Marathon, an event only held every ten years. Turning 50 this year, she saw it as a way to fundraise for the cancer centre and raise awareness about early detection. She spoke with Jack, who helped craft a training programme that included weekly PT sessions, massages for muscle recovery, and even Pilates classes to aid mobility. “Jack checks on me every few days and reinforces positive encouragement,” she shared. His guidance proved invaluable, especially in managing lymphedema, a side effect of her surgery. “I’ll never have the same mobility in my arm, but it’s now 99% better than before I started PT sessions.”
On October 20, Maxine completed the Stevenage Marathon in 6 hours and 32 minutes, raising over £2,300 for the Lister MacMillan Cancer Centre. “I did it to prove there is life after a cancer diagnosis,” she said, deeply thankful to be able to continue her life as a mum.
Looking ahead, Maxine plans to keep up with Jack’s Strength and Conditioning classes and training sessions with the Stevenage Striders. Her goal is to keep raising awareness for cancer, encouraging everyone, men included, to stay vigilant about their health. “Cancer doesn’t discriminate,” she says. “Early diagnosis is your lifesaver.”
Maxine’s story is one of hope, resilience, and community strength, illustrating that with the right support, it’s possible to overcome even the most difficult of challenges.
