Rachella (30) runs against cancer: 'My way of doing something for my sister'

The 17th edition of Maastrichts Mooiste raised over 35,000 euros for the KWF. A wonderful amount. Many people ran against this terrible disease in Maastricht. Each with their own story. Including 30-year-old Rachella. She ran for her sick sister.

A though period

"My pregnant sister, Ramona, got the scare of her life last autumn. During her 32-week ultrasound, doctors discovered a tumour in her abdomen. Three weeks later, she underwent surgery," Rachella says. An emotional time broke out. "A perfectly healthy daughter came into the world by caesarean section. At the same time, they removed a 2.5-kg tumour. Suddenly we were on a huge rollercoaster with the whole family. A grandchild and niece added and my sister in the medical mill."

Running

During this intense period, running was hugely important for Rachella. "While running, I have time to reflect on life. It helps me to give my sister's illness a place."

Although powerlessness continues to prevail. "I still feel very powerless when I see how my sister has been touched by cancer. Through that 10 kilometres in Maastricht, I turned my powerlessness into strength. And I contribute in my own way. The money I raise goes to pioneering cancer research. Something we will all benefit from in the future. Just like my sister."