Our Head of Science Ms Waller ran her first marathon in London, in aid of St Margaret’s Hospice, at the weekend. She finished in 6:04 in the sweltering heat. St Margarets looked after her grandmother three years ago. Here is her story:
When my Nanna was told she had a life-limiting illness it felt as if the world was ending. My beloved Nanna, who had raised me alongside my parents, would be leaving us and we could do nothing about it. Coming to terms with this was among the most challenging things I have ever had to do.
In the last few months of her life she was supported by St Margaret’s Hospice, spending time in their hospice at Taunton. When she arrived there, she recieved exceptional care allowing her comfort, space and time for reflection. Visiting her regularly became something to look forward to and the hospice supported our family to begin to process the impending loss.
Without the wonderful staff at the hospice a challenging time would have been so much worse. When she passed, a member of staff talked to us about how she had come to know and love my Nanna and held a space for us to begin to move forward.
I receive regular updates from the charity now, so I know that my story is one of so many. This charity touches the lives of so many and for both patients and families brings hope and calm when both feel hard to come by.
I love running and have always wanted to complete a marathon. Having the opportunity to run the London Marathon in my Nanna’s honour, for a charity that made an awful time more bearable, is the motivation I need to get out on those long training runs.
This charity needs your support and I would be so grateful if you could sponsor my London Marathon attempt.
Thank you.
https://2025tcslondonmarathon.enthuse.com/pf/ashleigh-waller