Running for Ozzie: A daughter’s marathon mission for cancer research

“I know firsthand how important research is in giving families hope, improving treatments and creating better outcomes for future patients. If I can play even a small part in that by raising funds, then every kilometre will be worth it.”
– Claudia

Running for dad

For Claudia, every training session and every kilometre on race day reflects the strength she sees in her dad.

Ozzie was first diagnosed with bowel cancer in 2018, undergoing chemotherapy and radiation treatment at Icon Cancer Centre Chermside throughout 2019. After returning to work, he faced another significant health challenge with a major heart attack in 2020.

Then, in March 2026, the Osborne family received the devastating news that Ozzie had been diagnosed with throat cancer.

Watching her dad face cancer for a second time inspired Claudia to turn a difficult chapter in her family’s life into something positive that could help others.

“Watching my dad face cancer for a second time has been incredibly difficult,” Claudia said.

“Seeing someone you love go through treatment again puts so much into perspective. Throughout it all, he’s remained resilient, positive and determined, which has inspired me more than he probably realises.”

Claudia knew she wanted to do more than simply show her support.

“I wanted to challenge myself in a way that reflected the strength he shows every day,” said Claudia.

“Running my first marathon felt like a meaningful way to honour his fight while also helping others who are facing a similar journey.”

Watching her father navigate treatment once again has reinforced for Claudia the importance of investing in cancer research.

“I know firsthand how important research is in giving families hope, improving treatments and creating better outcomes for future patients,” she said.

“If I can play even a small part in that by raising funds, then every kilometre will be worth it.”

After months of preparation, Claudia says crossing the finish line will be emotional, but sharing the achievement with her family, especially her dad, will make the achievement even more meaningful.

“Knowing Claudia is dedicating months of training and raising funds to support that gives me an incredible sense of pride. She’s not just doing it for me – she’s doing it for everyone whose lives have been touched by cancer.”
– Ozzie, Claudia’s dad

A proud dad

Seeing his daughter channel her love into supporting cancer research has been incredibly moving for Ozzie.

“I feel so proud of Claudia. Running a marathon is an enormous commitment and knowing she’s doing it to support cancer research because of what our family has been through made it even more special,” he said.

“As a parent, it’s humbling to see your child turn something so difficult into something positive that could help others.”

Ozzie knows firsthand the difference research can make for people diagnosed with cancer.

“Cancer affects so many families, and research is what gives people like me hope for better treatments and better outcomes,” said Ozzie.

“Knowing Claudia is dedicating months of training and raising funds to support that gives me an incredible sense of pride. She’s not just doing it for me – she’s doing it for everyone whose lives have been touched by cancer.”