Cancer has not stopped Ballito runner Harriet Kruger from living her life to the fullest

Running went from being Harriet Kruger’s way to cope, to becoming her salvation.

For years running had been an integral part of the Ballito resident’s life.

She started in 2015 after she was diagnosed with breast cancer, determined to change her lifestyle.

Three years after beating cancer she was seen behind the starting line of the greatest ultra marathon in the world, the Comrades Marathon.

Anyone who sees the 60-year-old running around Ballito, likely notices the friendly smile on her face.

There is no noticeable hint of Harriet’s recent history: Just 1 year ago, she learnt that breast cancer was back and Harriet’s difficult diagnosis was made worse when she learned that her cancer was metastatic – it had spread to her bones and brain.

“Obviously, that came as a shock,” Harriet recalls of her diagnosis of stage 4 breast cancer, “The diagnosis came at me so fast.”

“We are all terminal, but a cancer diagnosis puts it at you like a brick wall,” said the Ballito resident.

After receiving a number of sessions of radiotherapy, Harriet went under the care of functional health practitioners, Larry and Tracy Wilson of Incredible Health in Ballito.

A runner and a cancer survivor himself, Larry put Harriet on a strict nutritional plan to strengthen her body.

And one thing she held strongly to was her running.

At the beginning of this year Harriet started preparing for the 3-day Pondo Trail race which she signed up for last year before her diagnosis.

However organisers, Wild Child Africa were forced to cancel the race as a result of lockdown and her entry was rolled
over to this year.

Harriet decided not to forego her entry and together with her running partner and good friend, Belinda Skinner crossed the finish line of the 103km trail from Port Edward to Port St Johns on the Wild Coast on May 30.

“I made a choice to take it slowly and I ran when I could and walked when I needed to,” said Harriet who described the incredible but challenging experience as one for the bucket list.

“This diagnosis has taught me that it’s better to start small and do something at 60%, than never try because you cannot do 100% right away.”

That’s not a mere motto for Harriet but rather a lived-out practice she prioritises each day.

According to members of the running club she belongs to, her tenacity is paying off.

“Harriet went from bed-bound to participating in an ultra marathon,” said fellow runner Shannon Clark.

“Her spirit is remarkable, and her grit is undeniable.”

Her diagnosis has merely exemplified the positive, supportive and humble qualities she radiates.

And while Harriet is the first to admit there have been trying moments this past year, she says her diagnosis has taught her to make every moment count.

“One year ago, I was given a shocking diagnosis. Today, with my family, community and friends by my side, I celebrate my life by running and I am extremely grateful for all of life’s opportunities,” she said.