Thank you to our London Marathon 2024 Team
On Sunday 21st April, eleven Hospice Heroes took on the iconic TCS London Marathon 2024.
Anyone who has ever taken part will know that this 26.2 mile race is far more than just an almighty run. The wave of human energy created as everyone comes together for a common goal is immense.
Our runners all had their own reasons for crossing the finish line, but they had a shared passion for raising funds for the Hospice. They first met each other at the Hospice Marathon Meet and Greet as a mix of charity and ballot place holders. Previously strangers, they quickly bonded over a WhatsApp group, giving each other support and encouragement as they updated one another on their training and shared advice.
Sam Wakefield, Challenge Events Manager at the Hospice, offered support every step of the way and was there on the day, shouting encouragement to the team that she was so proud of. “We are already thinking about the 2025 Marathon,” says Sam. “I love every minute of supporting our runners through their journey and it would be great to welcome even more people onto our team next year. So, if you are lucky enough to get a place in the ballot, we would love to hear from you! We do have a limited number of charity places so as well as entering the ballot, you can register your interest here. Everyone is part of the team and will receive the same support from us if you have a charity place or a ballot place.”
One of our team, Simon Field, perfectly summed up the essence of what it means to run the marathon in support of a charity - "The London Marathon is not just a race; it's a journey of resilience, determination, and hope. With each step, we are raising funds for the Hospice and spreading love mile after mile." You can read Simon’s story here.
Together, the team have raised an incredible £26,000 which equates to 1366 hours of care for a patient on our ward.
Support like this is invaluable to allow the Hospice to continue to give outstanding care to patients and their families who need our support.
The rest of our team were also quick to get in touch the day after the marathon as they were resting their aching legs. You can’t not fail to be inspired by their words:-
Polly Wesson - “Wow what an amazing day. I didn’t believe what people said when they said the crowd carried you on the day, but they truly did. The support was overwhelming and incredible. Hearing your name shouted by complete strangers wishing you well as you were running was simply unforgettable! Loved it!” You can read Polly and her brother Felix’s story here.
Archie Kallmeier - “It was an incredible experience, and the atmosphere was amazing and so supportive. The amount of times I heard my name being called was also incredible and it helped inspire me to carry on and not give up.” You can read Archie’s story here.