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Hospice nurses challenge local businesses to take on London Marathon

7 January 2019
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A team of nurses from Birmingham St Mary’s Hospice is challenging business professionals to go the distance this New Year, by taking on the London Marathon.

Emma Kelly, Amy Clark and Ann Lawless, who all work at the Selly Park-based hospice, are calling on running enthusiasts to complete the gruelling 26.2 mile run to show their support for the charity.

Taking place on Sunday 28 April, the ballot for the iconic race has now closed but runners can still take part by signing up with the Hospice and pledging to raise £2,000 to support local people who are living with life-limiting illness.

Emma Kelly, who is a sister at the Hospice, said: “After all the Christmas partying and festive feasting, I know many people will be looking for ways to get fit and healthy this New Year – so how about taking on the ultimate running challenge as a motivator? If you’re a keen runner, there’s still plenty of time to step up to the challenge and ask colleagues and friends to sponsor you.

“I’ve worked at Birmingham St Mary’s for over three years and I’ve seen first-hand how vital the Hospice’s services are to people living across Birmingham and Sandwell. Being diagnosed with an incurable illness is physically and emotionally tough but we do everything we can to help people to live well with their illness, so they can keep doing the things they love with the people who matter most to them.

“It will cost £8 million to run the Hospice’s services in 2019 – over 60 per cent of which will need to come from generous voluntary donations – so all sponsorship money raised at the London Marathon will go a long way in supporting people who are going through the most difficult of times.”

Every day, Birmingham St Mary’s Hospice cares for 400 people and their loved ones who are living with life-limiting illness. It can provide support in people’s homes, in community locations such as GP surgeries, and at the Hospice itself.

Having opened its doors in 1979, the Hospice is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year with a number of different activities happening across the city. Its London Marathon places are limited but the Hospice is encouraging corporates to take them on in a bid to raise vital awareness and funds during this celebratory year.

To find out more or to book your spot, please contact Charlotte Anson, corporate partnerships manager, on 0121 752 8779 or email charlotte.anson@birminghamhospice.org.uk