Newcastle United Midfielder Jonas Gutierrez Runs Marathon Despite Battling Cancer

In September, the public was made aware of Newcastle United midfielder Jonas Gutierrez’s battle with testicular cancer after the player thanked fans via his Twitter account and during an interview with Argentinian television.

At the time, the 31-year-old confirmed that he had been receiving chemotherapy in Argentina and tweeted his appreciation for all of the fans’ support: “Thanks for all the messages. Always looking forward.”

This past Sunday, the Argentinian took part in the Buenos Aires marathon and completed the grueling 26.2 mile run. He chose to participate in the event to assist with the fundraising efforts of the charity, FUCA – which is an acronym for Foundation for Research, Teaching and Cancer Prevention.

The Newcastle winger once again took to social media to thank his followers for encouraging him during the race with the hashtag, #corroconjonas.

“Thank you very much to all the participants of the Buenos Aires Marathon 42k for the support and encouragement during the race,” Gutierrez wrote.

In September, the Argentina international – who was loaned to Norwich City in January 2014 – told TyC Sports: “When I confirmed that I had cancer I went home crying. This was the most difficult game I had to play.”

“I detected a tumor in a testicle. I came here [Argentina] and I assumed the costs, despite having a contract with Newcastle. Money is not important. What is important is health and I had to start chemotherapy.”

“I removed the left testicle. I returned to England and Newcastle told me to leave. It was hard to find my hair falling out. I did not want to cut it. I wanted to hold on. Fighting cancer makes the rest of the problems insignificant.”

“I decided to tell my story because maybe it will help people who have cancer.”

Since his announcement, Gutierrez has received support from teammates as well as fans from around the world.

To visit the FUCA Facebook page go to: https:\/\/www.facebook.com/FUCA83