Chemotherapy left her feet too swollen for shoes but this single mum kept running: 'It saved my life'

In 2019, Cassandra Hie, a 53-year-old single mother, was undergoing chemotherapy for breast cancer. The treatment caused severe swelling in her feet, making it impossible for her to wear running shoes. Undeterred, Hie continued her running routine, pounding the hard pavement along Kallang Park Connector without footwear. She drew on her eyebrows to maintain her appearance, even as chemotherapy caused her to lose her natural lashes and brows.

Running became a crucial part of Hie's life, providing relief from the nausea and other symptoms caused by her cancer treatment. As a single parent to two children, Hie's motivation to keep running stemmed from her desire to be strong for her kids. In April 2019, Hie was diagnosed with Stage Two breast cancer, but she decided to compete in a 55km Vietnam Jungle Marathon despite her health condition.

Her daughter, unaware of her cancer, expressed disbelief upon learning of her mother's race. Despite the challenges, Hie finished the race, drawing strength from her daughter's message. After her surgery, Hie returned to running just three weeks later, even while receiving chemotherapy. She managed to finish among the top three in more than 10 competitive races since her cancer diagnosis.