London Marathon Runners raise thousands
Sunday 4th April marked the 43rd TCS London Marathon, an iconic route that takes runners around the streets of the capital city. Twelve incredible runners took on the challenge in support of Naomi House & Jacksplace. They collectively raised over an amazing £21,000 for our hospices.
The dedication from the runners and their fundraising efforts makes such a difference to the families in our care. We want to thank each and everyone of them for their support at the London Marathon.
Read on to hear from our runners.
The London Marathon day is full of every emotion you can imagine, but mainly it is joy and a sense of achievement. The crowds carry you round and yes, there may be tough parts where you have to dig deep but then someone will shout your name, you remember why you're there and you're off again!
Christopher
"The atmosphere on race day is unlike anything I have ever seen in my life. I’ve ran many races, but the London Marathon was extraordinary! 26 miles of constant noise, cheering and support. Amazing!
Naomi House & Jacksplace gave me tremendous support throughout the training period, up to and including race day. Constant updates, tips and fundraising guidance. The moisturizing foot pack was certainly a welcome treat post race
Lisa
"The London Marathon has always been a bucket list event for me. I have entered the ballot for 7 years in a row with no success, so I decided to do it for charity. There was never a question of which charity as Naomi House is so close to my heart. I worked there as a nurse and now have many patients who use their services, for the good days, the bad days and their last days.
I trained hard for the event which was tough alongside a full time job, a young family and my own life. I knew it was for such a great cause though and that spurred me on through some of the harder times.
The marathon itself was incredible, I honestly enjoyed every minute. The crowds carried me to the finish and I have never felt so overwhelmed by the level of support I had. It’s hand up, one of the best days of my life.
If you are in two minds to run the marathon then don’t be, I promise you will not regret it. Naomi House will support you every step of the way from fundraising, training, to post run care"
Jack
"I chose to run for your charity because I think it's important to raise money for children who are unfortunately not in the best place and I believe you guys make a big difference. The marathon it's self was really challenging as I didn't prepare my self for it but I managed to make it over the finish line out of sheer determination and the atmosphere carried me through. To anyone else looking to do the marathon I would definitely recommend it however I'd definitely recommend a strong training regime because it is really hard."
Elly
"I had previously run the London Marathon twice before but since my son Adam, now 12 was in hospital for 6 months in 2020/2021 with hydrocephalus(needing 3 brain operations) and severe epilepsy and subsequently using Naomi House for respite care I knew I wanted to support the hospice.
Adam's extended stay in hospital has left him unable to walk and on a ventilator at night so his care needs have increased dramatically. One of us always needs to sleep in his room as his seizures occur at night and we need to activate his Vagus Nerve Stimulatior to stop them.
Adam was put forward as a child who could utilise Naomi House respite care and seeing first hand how amazing Naomi House is i knew i wanted to raise money for this vital charity to families like mine. I can't explain what a life line Naomi House has given us in terms of giving us some down time and being able to spend time with our daughter.
Adam has been visiting Naomi House for respite care since he has come out of hospital and he enjoys going to so much he has asked to move in, which I hope is down to what a great place it is and not down to the care he receives at home!
The London Marathon day is full of every emotion you can imagine, but mainly it is joy and a sense of achievement. The crowds carry you round and yes, there may be tough parts where you have to dig deep but then someone will shout your name, you remember why you're there and you're off again!
The support you receive when running for Naomi House and Jacksplace has been brilliant , with training days organised to set you up, check ins along the way and then cheering you on on the big day. It has been a pleasure to run for them!"
Lee
"It's been a great experience running on behalf of Naomi House & Jacksplace, and I loved every second of the race (even the pains!). I chose to run for Naomi House because my Dad has been involved with them for a while now, and what they do every day for those who need their care and support is inspiring.
I would definitely love to run on behalf of Naomi House & Jacksplace again in the future, and to those who are considering going for the 2024 London Marathon on behalf of them - Do it! Its well worth it and such a good experience.
I just want to say thanks to all of the team that made this possible and especially to Charlotte, who has been great every single step of the way. Until next time!"
Samantha
"I'll be completely honest I signed up on a whim having never done any running in 20 years and here I am medal and all thank you so much for all the support you gave all the check ins, the pre/post Marathon treats that came in the post I had the BEST day. Even though my hip couldn't take anymore from mile 17 I pushed through to get to the finish and I am so proud of being able to raise so much money for such a fab charity. Thank you for choosing me!"
If you are in two minds to run the marathon then don’t be, I promise you will not regret it!