Molly Hawkins, a 28-year-old resident of Bedford, is preparing to tackle the 13.1-mile London Landmarks Half Marathon this April, dedicating her efforts to raising funds for the national palliative care and bereavement support charity, Sue Ryder. Her goal is to generate £1,000 in support of the cause that provided crucial care to her family during a difficult time.
A Heartbreaking Diagnosis and Loss
In 2023, Molly's father, Steve Hawkins, received a devastating diagnosis of an unknown primary stage four cancer. After a rapid and intense two-month illness, he passed away on October 7, 2023, under the expert and compassionate care of the team at Sue Ryder St John's Hospice in Moggerhanger.
"Things escalated really quickly for dad," Molly recalls. "He initially complained of a bad back and underwent numerous tests, which eventually revealed lesions on his spine. Within just two months, he was gone at the age of 63. The speed of it all was shocking, and the most difficult aspect was that we never discovered the underlying cause."
Remembering a Kind and Sporty Father
Steve Hawkins, a carpenter and joiner by trade, was a lifelong athlete with a deep passion for rugby and cricket. Born and raised in Bedford, he later became involved in his daughters' hockey club when Molly and her sister took up the sport.
"My dad was the kindest, most selfless person I've ever known," Molly shares. "He was the type who would do anything for anyone without ever seeking recognition. He played rugby from a young age and went on to coach the Junior Bedford Blues and Junior Swifts teams after retiring from playing himself. He was incredibly sporty and active."
Molly adds, "He and my mum loved to travel—they were married for 29 years. Dad was everyone's rock, always giving everything to others and asking for nothing in return."
Giving Back Through a Personal Challenge
Determined to honor her father's memory and express gratitude to Sue Ryder for their unwavering support of both her dad and her entire family, Molly decided to step out of her comfort zone by taking on the half-marathon challenge.
"When dad was in the hospital, we all struggled," Molly explains. "But moving him to the hospice completely changed the experience. The staff were so supportive and compassionate—nothing was ever too much trouble for them. They genuinely cared, always listening and guiding us based on what we wanted as a family. We were especially grateful that the whole family could be with dad in his final moments, as so many people wanted to visit him."
The London Landmarks Half Marathon
The London Landmarks Half Marathon, scheduled for Sunday, April 12, is a closed-road event that winds through central London. It holds the distinction of being the only half-marathon to pass through both the City of London and the City of Westminster.
"My sister ran the London Landmarks Half Marathon in 2024, and I loved the atmosphere," Molly says. "So, I knew if I was going to attempt a half-marathon, this would be the one. While I enjoy sports like hockey, I don't think Dad would have imagined me doing a half-marathon—before this, the furthest I had ever run was 10k."
"That's exactly why I wanted to do it," she continues. "To push myself beyond my limits and take on a real challenge, all while raising money for a charity that means so much to me."
Rigorous Training and Overwhelming Support
In preparation for the event, Molly has been hitting the pavement five times a week. "The training is going well," she reports. "It can be tough to find motivation during the cold, dark winter months, but everyone has been incredibly supportive. My dog, Diego, has been joining me on my runs, which helps."
She adds, "I tried running on the treadmill, but I prefer being outdoors. I listen to music and podcasts, and I've been exploring different running routes. It's been wonderful to discover new places along the way."
Exceeding Fundraising Goals
Molly initially set a fundraising target of £300, but thanks to the generous contributions from family, friends, and colleagues—both old and new—she has already surpassed her £1,000 goal.
"I will be so proud to complete the half-marathon, knowing that I've done something meaningful for a good cause in dad's honor," Molly reflects. "I know there will be tough moments on the day, but through my training, I'm building mental resilience. Crossing the finish line will feel incredibly rewarding."
"My family and friends will be there cheering me on, hopefully stationed along the route to give me the encouragement I need to keep going," she concludes. "I know Dad would be proud of me."
