Prashant Saxena Inspires at Delhi Half Marathon After Beating Cancer Twice

At the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon, the spotlight often shines on elite runners like Gulveer Singh, Abhishek Pal, and Lily Das, alongside international stars such as Ethiopia’s Birhanu Legese Gurmesa. Yet, amid the 40,000 participants, some stories transcend podium finishes.

One such story is Prashant Saxena, a 51-year-old cancer survivor who has turned running into a life-affirming passion. Diagnosed with colon cancer in 2002 and again in 2012, Saxena battled adversity with determination, emerging stronger each time.

Finding Strength Through Running

An engineering graduate and owner of Structure India Pvt. Ltd., Saxena initially struggled to regain purpose post-recovery. Inspired by Dr. Sudip Kumar, he began running in 2003–2004, gradually building stamina and finding joy in the process.

“If you want to check whether you are fit to live or not, just give some stress to your life, and you will feel you are enjoying your life,” said Saxena, recalling his mentor’s advice.

From daily 4–5 km runs to participating in Delhi Half Marathons since 2013, Saxena embraced running as a way to reclaim life and vitality.

Rising Again After Recurrence

Facing a cancer recurrence in 2012, Saxena describes it as a low point. Yet, the support of family and friends, coupled with willpower, helped him regain strength. He gradually increased his running distance, overcoming asthma and fatigue.

“Any disease, whether cancer or even a fever, 50 percent is cured by medicine and 50 by willpower. I created a placebo inside me that if I run, I will overcome anything,” Saxena shared.

A Marathon Against Himself

For Saxena, the half marathon is not about competing with international stars but pushing his own limits. Using a running app to track personal progress, he focuses on beating his previous times, finding joy in each kilometer completed.

His current goal: complete a full marathon in Mumbai and improve his Delhi Half Marathon timing from 2:45 to around 2:10–2:15.

Inspiration for Others

Saxena’s journey stands as a beacon of hope for cancer survivors.

“If even one cancer patient gets confidence from my words, it is a big achievement. This disease is not incurable. Do what you like — play, run, or don’t, but don’t give up,” he said.

Through resilience, determination, and passion for running, Prashant Saxena exemplifies the triumph of the human spirit — proving that life after adversity can still be full of strength, speed, and purpose.