Runners take part in a road race on a bridge beneath a Willis Avenue Bridge sign. The sun is shining, and one runner in the centre is smiling and waving at the camera. Other runners are seen in various athletic outfits.

Doctor connects with patients running London Marathon

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Courtney Bundrick will run for the World Cancer Research Fund on April 26, 2026 to support cancer prevention research following the death of her parents.

The internal medicine doctor from Little Rock is raising funds in memory of her mother, who died of ovarian cancer when Courtney was only 12 years old.

Courtney’s role in caring for people with advanced cancer was also inspired by her father, who was a doctor before passing away in 2023.

A young woman wearing a stethoscope plays doctor with a smiling woman wearing glasses. The girl holds the stethoscope against the woman's chest. The photo is in black and white.

This frontline healthcare experience motivated Courtney to take action beyond the hospital walls. By raising funds for cancer prevention research, he hopes to improve outcomes for future patients.

“The majority of cancer patients I see are newly diagnosed with severe symptoms or have advanced disease.” Courtney explained. “At that point, treatment options may be limited. That’s why I’m passionate about raising money for life-changing cancer research.”

For Courtney, running has been a healthy release since she studied medicine and she has since embraced discipline and mental resilience.

“Training for a marathon requires months of commitment, but I love the structure and focus it gives me. It’s also a healthier way to manage stress, especially after starting my career during the pandemic.”

A smiling woman with a race number and a medal stands outside at night, wrapped in an orange poncho, among other similarly dressed runners, celebrating after finishing a marathon.

This dedication has not gone unnoticed by her patients, who are touched by Courtney’s efforts.

“Sometimes I come to work after training, which often sparks conversations.” she shared. “Some of my patients were runners, so it becomes a way for us to connect.”

A smiling runner with his arms raised crosses a city street during a race, wearing sunglasses and a bib labeled Courtney. Other runners follow, some in colorful sports uniforms. Brick buildings and trees line the street.

World Cancer Research Fund CEO Rachael Hutson said:

“Every day, we see the impact that cancer has on individuals, families and communities. It is people like Courtney, who bring professional experience and personal knowledge, who inspire change. By running the London Marathon, she is driving life-changing research into how diet, nutrition and physical activity can reduce the risk of cancer and improve survival. We are grateful for her dedication and are incredibly proud to have her on the team.”

As she prepares for London, Courtney carries with her the memory of her mother and the stories of the patients she sees every day.

“I’m doing this for them.” she said. “Anything we can do to advance the investigation and prevent others from reaching the later stages, that is the most important thing.”

You can show Courtney your support by donating or sharing her story at the link below.