Warwickshire Police Chief Constable Alex Franklin-Smith shares the emotional toll of his 17-year-old daughter Izzy’s battle with chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) while training for the London Marathon.
Daughter’s Diagnosis and Treatment
Izzy, a second-year college student aspiring to become a nurse, received her diagnosis six months ago. She undergoes treatment that shows positive response, though side effects like fatigue, sickness, and painful limbs pose daily hurdles.
Alex Franklin-Smith, 44, from Kenilworth, describes the news as heartbreaking. “At 17, to be told you have what is a very rare blood cancer for her age, was and remains incredibly challenging for her to process,” he states.
London Marathon Fundraising Effort
The chief constable runs the 26.2-mile London Marathon on April 26 to support Leukaemia Care. Halfway through a rigorous 16-week training plan, he draws inspiration from Izzy’s resilience. “Izzy is the strongest person I know and she inspires me every single day to focus on the positives in life,” Alex says. “We are optimistic about her prognosis and, with her determination, I absolutely believe she will achieve all her aspirations.”
He adds, “The generosity of people who donate towards this great charity is overwhelming. I’ll have that at the forefront of my mind as I pound 26 miles of the London streets on April 26.”
Training Challenges
Eight weeks into training, Alex faces tough winter conditions with wet weather and dark nights. “I’m really enjoying the training, although it’s harder during the winter months,” he notes. “Buying a new pair of trainers to replace my six-year-old pair was a game changer.”
Support from Leukaemia Care
Colin Dyer, chief executive of Leukaemia Care, expresses gratitude. “We are hugely grateful to Alex for taking on the London Marathon in support of Leukaemia Care during what is clearly a very personal and emotional time for his family,” Dyer says. “When a young person is diagnosed with blood cancer, it affects the whole family.”
He emphasizes the impact: “Every single penny raised through challenges like this enables us to provide vital information, practical guidance and emotional support to families navigating a diagnosis, treatment and beyond. We wish Alex good luck, and will be cheering him on, on the day.”
To support Alex’s marathon challenge, visit: JustGiving page.
