Hundreds took part in a 5k run despite the rainy weather in Darlington's South Park today in memory of a much-loved campaigner who lost her 12-month battle with cancer last week.
The life of Viv Pow, 60, was celebrated with the formidable sight of 350 runners who took on three laps of the park in Viv’s Positivity Fun Run/Walk just a week after she passed away.
Viv, who lived in Middleton Tyas, dedicated the last twelve years of her life following her initial diagnosis in 2012 to fundraising for Cancer Research and spreading awareness.
The run, which was the third of its kind, was planned presuming that Viv would be there herself, who said it was her “one big goal left” just weeks before she died.
Viv’s husband Jeff Pow was in awe of the number of people who showed up in memory of his late wife.
“We knew it was coming,” said Jeff. “But when it comes, it’s still a shock.”
“There are a lot of people here, it shows what sort of a person Viv was. She touched so many people’s lives and inspired so many people, so it is rewarding to see everyone out today.”
Also present was Viv’s best friend and former police colleague Tracy Kirk, who spoke to the Echo shortly before runners dashed across the start line to begin the 5k.
“Viv wanted to be here; we were planning for that. She was just so loved, she was an inspiration and never gave up.
“She would show up, smile, and was just overall an amazing and fantastic human being.”
Runners dressed in their best and brightest then stood around both Tracy and Jeff who both held back tears whilst delivering emotional speeches to the crowd.
Jeff begun: “I had the privilege of being Viv’s husband for over 30 years. She was, without doubt, one of the strongest and most determined people I have ever met.
“She always put others before herself, and invariably offered support to everyone she knew. I am so pleased and proud that she has touched so many hearts, shown by the fact you are all here today.
“I know she is watching, and she would tell you this: Love life, be kind to yourself and others. Life is a gift. Enjoy it.”
Welling up, Tracy took the microphone and said: “You were, and always will be, our warrior extraordinaire. Your positivity was your superpower, you won so many battles.
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“You taught us so much and leave a legacy that will continue – living life to the full, to get up, show up.
“The world will be a duller place without you in it but I hope that in your memory we can learn to cherish every hug, every kindness, every kindness and every walk to simply find the joy in the moments we take for granted.”
Pictures from the evening show runners of all ages braced in the chilly rain with smiles on their faces along their laps as members of the public clapped, cheering them on.
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