Four Local Runners Prepare for London Marathon Challenge
Four dedicated local runners are gearing up to conquer the formidable 26.2-mile distance of the London Marathon, all in support of Cardiff and Vale Health Charity. This incredible team effort aims to generate vital funds that will directly benefit specialist medical equipment and wellbeing initiatives across hospitals in the region. Each runner brings a unique and powerful personal story to the starting line, transforming their marathon journey into a profound mission of gratitude, memory, and community support.
Clare: Celebrating a Year of Being Cancer-Free
For Clare, this year's marathon represents an extraordinary personal milestone. She will be running just one year after her diagnosis and subsequent treatment for breast cancer. Motivated by immense gratitude for the care she received from Mr. Sumit Goyal OBE and the team at The Breast Centre in Llandough, Clare is determined to give back. The centre provides essential diagnostic services and compassionate care to nearly 4,000 patients annually.
Her running community, Women Running Penarth, has been instrumental in both her emotional and physical recovery. Clare describes it as "an honour" to support her local Breast Centre through this significant athletic endeavor.
Thea: Fulfilling a Mother's Dream
Thea's marathon run is a heartfelt tribute to her mother, Harriet. In 2009, Harriet trained for the London Marathon during a period of remission from cervical cancer. Tragically, when her cancer returned, she was unable to participate and passed away in 2010. Now, sixteen years later, Thea and her sister Rosie are taking on the challenge together to fulfill their mother's dream.
As a mental health nurse working with older adults, Thea witnesses daily the complex support provided by Cardiff and Vale University Health Board. Running for the charity beautifully merges her personal loss with her professional dedication to care.
Joe: Championing Rehabilitation and Mental Health
Joe brings a unique perspective to the marathon, representing both the charity and the resilience found in rehabilitation and recovery. Having worked as a physiotherapy technical instructor in Neurorehabilitation and now within Adult Mental Health for Cardiff and Vale UHB, he has direct insight into the transformative impact of these services.
His own journey back to running after ACL reconstruction surgery in June 2024 has only deepened his belief in the power of exercise for mental and physical health. Joe is also using his platform to raise awareness about stammering, demonstrating that challenges can be overcome step by step.
Mia: Running for the NHS That Cares for Her Community
Mia, an employee of Cardiff and Vale University Health Board, sees firsthand the dedication of NHS staff every day. With many family members and friends having received exceptional care from these services, her connection to the charity is deeply personal. She states she "couldn't imagine running for anyone else."
Fitness and running have been transformative for Mia, serving as an anchor for managing emotions and strengthening her mental wellbeing. She is deeply immersed in training, using smaller races as preparation, and finds combining her personal resilience with supporting a vital local charity "means the absolute world."
The Impact of Your Support
Donations to the Cardiff and Vale Health Charity enable hospitals to exceed what the NHS can provide alone. This support also serves as crucial motivation for the runners throughout every grueling training mile. By backing these athletes, contributors help:
- Fund state-of-the-art specialist medical equipment.
- Enhance and improve patient spaces and environments.
- Support innovative wellbeing projects for both patients and staff.
- Invest in professional development for healthcare staff.
- Deliver compassionate, enhanced care across the Cardiff and Vale region.
The hospital has sent a message of encouragement to the team, wishing them good luck, thanking them, and urging them to enjoy every moment of their unforgettable journey. The community will be cheering them on from the first step to the final triumphant stride down The Mall. Here's to strong legs, steady minds, full hearts, and an amazing marathon day.
