Passionate CHSW supporters take on the London Marathon for CHSW
Two supporters of Children's Hospice South West are taking on the London Marathon this year in support of Children’s Hospice South West (CHSW) – and for both it’s their first ever marathon!
Emma Smale, aged 33 from Bideford used CHSW’s Little Bridge House hospice in Fremington for support and care with her daughter Imogen before her death in March 2016. Emma wanted to give something back to the hospice for the help it had given her and her family, and decided to aim big by applying for one of the charity’s places at this legendary event.
This will be Emma’s first ever marathon and she said:
To be honest it is a bit daunting and will be the furthest I have ever run. Training has been hard. The only time I’m free to run is at 6.00am, so it’s taken some real commitment through the winter months! But I’m determined to see it through and I’m excited and nervous at the same time about the big day!
Emma will be joined by June Tamlyn from Marwood. Whereas Emma has been involved with CHSW in recent years, June has been involved from the very start.
As a member of CHSW’s first Friend’s Group in Marwood, formed back in 1991 June and the team have tirelessly fundraised for CHSW through concerts, open gardens, sales, stall and cream teas galore. This will also be the first marathon for June and she is equally daunted by the distance. June said:
Although I realise that a marathon is a real challenge, I am so lucky to be fit enough to even consider it and it will be a massive achievement for me and my last chance for London before I turn 70.
Emma and June have been swapping training tips and although they’ve already battled blisters, shin splints and maintaining stamina, they’re determined to complete the marathon and collectively they’re hoping to raise nearly £10,000 for the charity.
Josh Allan, community fundraiser at Little Bridge House said: ‘We are overwhelmed by Emma and June’s commitment to CHSW. They are both extraordinary individuals and we will be supporting them every step of the way!’
Emma and June are both organising lots of fundraising activities, including hosting open house events in Marwood, and an 80’s and 90’s disco in Bideford in March, and if you would like to lend your support to them, you’ll find them both on uk.virginmoneygiving.com
And if you would like more information as to how you can run in support of CHSW, see www.chsw.org.uk/running or call Little Bridge House on 01271 325270.