Waterford set for 'running with Kyle' community event

A very special community event will take place at SETU Arena in Waterford this coming weekend.

On Saturday, the SETU Arena park run will feature a very special guest in the form of Kyle Comerford who was diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer seven months ago.

Commenting ahead of the event to Waterford News & Star, Kyle said the diagnosis was a life-changing one for him personally

"Seven months ago, I was diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer," he said.

"It’s been a life-changing journey from chemotherapy and long hospital stays to slowly rebuilding both my health and my strength," he added.

However, Saturday's event is a very significant one for Kyle.

"This Saturday marks a big milestone: I’ll be running again for the first time since my diagnosis," he said.

"In support, the incredible volunteer team at SETU Arena parkrun are stepping away from their usual roles to run or walk beside me," he added.

Kyle went on to comment: "This particular Saturday is especially meaningful to me, as I’m dedicating the run to everyone affected by cancer. After completing chemotherapy treatment earlier this year and now midway through radiation, this event marks a big milestone in my continued fight and recovery and a celebration of strength, community, and hope."

The event is being held under the title, 'Running with Kyle', and is a way of celebrating recovery, community and everyone who’s been touched by this illness.

"The support I’ve received from the parkrun community has been nothing short of amazing and we’re inviting the public to join in on Saturday morning to be part of something positive and uplifting," said Kyle.

Meanwhile, the team behind the park run initiative expressed delight at being able to recognise Kyle's inherent positivity and strength.

"This Saturday is very special for us at SETU Arena parkrun," stated one of those involved.

"As many regulars will know, our friend and regular runner [and] volunteer Kyle Comerford was diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer seven months ago," they added, before going on to state: "Kyle faced this unbelievably difficult diagnosis with massive strength and positivity. Now, after many long months of treatment, he’s well on the road to a full recovery. And he’s back running again. That’s why this weekend, we’re 'Running with Kyle'."

The majority of the core volunteer team behind the event will be giving up their usual roles and will instead participate by running and walking. 

"We invite you to do the same," stated the organisers.

"Join us at SETU Arena as we celebrate Kyle and honour everyone who’s been touched by this terrible illness."

Gratitude was also expressed to everyone who stepped up to volunteer their support at the event.

The regular park run is a free weekly initiative that takes place every Saturday morning at 9.30am and is open to people of all ages and abilities.