Dr. Naomi Menday Lee, a dedicated breast physician, will run the Sydney Marathon on August 31 to honor her late father and raise funds for the Hunter Medical Research Institute. Her father passed away from bowel cancer at the age of 54, leaving a lasting impact on her life and career. As she trains for the marathon, memories of him inspire her to push through the challenges of both running and her medical profession.
In her role with BreastScreen NSW in Newcastle, Dr. Menday Lee witnesses the profound need for medical research daily. “For women recalled to the clinic, it’s often a very emotional time,” she explained. “I’m the first person to sit down with patients when they have a finding we’re concerned about.” This role places her at the forefront of patient care, often delivering difficult news about potential breast cancer diagnoses. While most women recalled do not have cancer, the anxiety surrounding the possibility is significant.
Dr. Menday Lee’s compassionate approach to discussing mammogram results is crucial. “We can’t change the fact they have cancer, but we can ensure we find it early and provide the best support,” she said. At the private Breast Centre clinic in Gateshead, she also focuses on women at higher risk of breast cancer, reinforcing the importance of early detection.
At 55, Dr. Menday Lee has accomplished much in her career. After completing her medical degree, she briefly pursued a career in law before returning to medicine. Now, she is not only a physician but also an avid marathon runner. The upcoming Sydney Marathon will mark her seventh race, reflecting her commitment to both her profession and personal health.
Training for the marathon has its challenges. Dr. Menday Lee has enlisted the help of a personal trainer who has provided strength training guidance, helping her avoid injuries. “People hear you run a marathon and they are impressed, but I don’t know if they fully appreciate what it takes,” she remarked. The 42-kilometre event requires not only physical endurance but also mental resilience.
During her runs, Dr. Menday Lee carries one of her father’s old medals, a tangible reminder of his presence. “I was lucky to find one of his finisher’s medals among his things,” she shared. “I have a sense my dad is with me. He still has a presence with me and my siblings.” She believes he would be proud of her and her brother’s marathon achievements, often reflecting on how wonderful it would have been for him to witness their finishes.
Her father’s journey into running began when he was advised to improve his health due to significant weight issues in his late twenties. “He was told that if he didn’t get into running and do something about his health, he would have a very limited lifespan,” Dr. Menday Lee recalled. “In my conscious memory, he always ran.” The City to Surf was one of his favorite events, and she fondly remembers watching him cross the finish line.
Dr. Menday Lee’s marathon is not just a personal challenge; it is also a tribute to her father’s legacy and a call to support vital medical research. Her dedication serves as a reminder of the importance of health, both for individuals and for the community at large. Through her efforts, she aims to contribute to advancements in medical knowledge that can help others facing similar health challenges.
