American woman to run London marathon in memory of Saltburn uncle

Owen Guyler, known affectionately as Oggy died in January 2022 at the age of 61 after living with brain cancer for 28 years - despite doctors initially giving him only twelve months to live after his diagnosis.

Kristen Guyler, from New Jersey, will be running her fifth marathon - her first outside the US - to raise money for the charity Brain Tumour Research in memory of her uncle Oggy from Saltburn.

Oggy's brother Hugh moved to America from the North East for work, where he married and had two daughters – Kristen and Maura. They travelled to England every year to catch up with the rest of the family.

Kristen, who is a senior sales analyst for financial analysis firm TIFIN said: “Uncle Oggy seized every moment. I really wanted to do something in tribute to him, which also has a positive impact for others.

“Running is my happy place, so doing a marathon in his home country for Brain Tumour Research seemed like the perfect combination. I want to see more progressive research and help to prevent other people going through what he went through.”

Carol Robertson, national events manager for Brain Tumour Research, said: “Owen’s story is a stark reminder of just how little is known about brain tumours, and why more research is so desperately needed. We’re very grateful to Kristen for taking on this huge challenge to help raise funds for our cause. Our Marathon runners are supported every step of the way, and we look forward to cheering Kristen across the finish line.

“If you have your own place through the ballot, we would love you to join our Fighting Force London Marathon team.”

Although brain tumours kill more children and adults under the age of 40 than any other cancer, only 1% of national spend on cancer research has historically been allocated to the field.

Kristen Guyler with her uncle Oggy, grandfather Michael and dad Hugh. (Image: Brain Tumour Research)

Despite the side effects of his treatment, which included seizures, Oggy lived with his parents until they passed away.

About 18 months before he died, Owen began to noticeably deteriorate.

Kristen said: “His speech became slowed and slurred, and he had trouble thinking of the words he needed. The tumour just took over.

“It was always so special to see Uncle Oggy," she added, "he was the most compassionate, caring, selfless person. He looked out for everybody and he took care of my grandparents, when really it was him who needed the care."

Kristen surprised Hugh with news of her marathon for Father’s Day.

“It was my gift to my dad, doing the marathon in memory of his brother. He was really pleased and excited. He’s going to be there on the day as my cheerleader, but I’m sure it will be very emotional as well,” she added.

Kristen joins a team of more than 70 people running for Brain Tumour research on Sunday 23 April, 2023.

To support Kristen’s fundraising, visit https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/kristen-guyler2.

Brain Tumour Research is providing its runners with a package of support in the lead up to the event, including help from running coaches and access to a participants Facebook Group.