Raffael Skalnik from Eisenstadt lost his mother to cancer in April 2024. At that time he started running. This year he was there at the Vienna Marathon – and not only gained experience, but also money for cancer help Burgenland. His goal was 1422 euros, as a symbol for the 42.2 kilometers that a marathon is long.
Running became part of his therapy to process and transform emotions. “Mourning became joy and strength. I found presence, clarity, a direct connection with myself – but also a community in which I feel at ease,” says the young man.
Raffael accompanied his mother with the disease for three years until he finally had to say goodbye on April 7, 2024. A time that was demanding, but also showed what love means. After his loss, he did not crawl, but started to allow and walk the pain and the grief.
“She would have been the one who welcomed the loudest”
Raffael trained – and let his social media community be there. But not only that: he launched the fundraising campaign “Run for those who can’t do that – my marathon for cancer help” on the Gofundme internet platform. On April 6 this year, one day before his mother’s death was the first year, the Eisenstadt started in the Vienna Marathon.
“The run was more than just a race for me. It was a farewell, a dedication, a 42.2 kilometer long mantra meditation. I wanted to honor the power of my mother, courage and tireless fighting spirit. And how was it? He laughs.” It was not easy, otherwise everyone would do it. But that is exactly what it went and always does: stay over it, even if it becomes difficult. “
“Do I really want to run 7 kilometers?”
That’s how it was with him. It was difficult. At kilometer 35 the reality caught up with him. His body no longer wanted, the young man only had three weeks of training for the marathon. Because shortly before, he was on a five -week trip in Peru, who brought him into a forced break.
“I wondered if I really wanted to run the last seven kilometers,” he reveals.
But he stayed informed and went on. But he remained informed. Loop. Why? “Because I have the capacity and not other people. Because I can walk and others.
And thinks it was only a negotiation between his mind and a higher copy in him, who knew that there was simply not an option. The memory of his mother and the support of his community also wore him. His mantra: “Not my will, my heart will be ready” not my will, my heart will do it.
His realization: what he did in the marathon was not that difficult to tolerate their illness with their illness every day. “That made me give meaning. That was why I had collected donations for cancer help. Because it creates the consciousness of the audience and also physically, mentally and emotionally supporting their way.”
He crossed the finish line. He ran crying, laughing, free for the last few meters. He crossed the finish line. Then he felt strong. Satisfied. Emotional, liberated and ready for his next adventure.
Raffael will continue. For himself, his mother and all those who can’t do that. And therefore give the movement and its kilometers more important.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
