Hospice supporters prepare for marathon

COMPLETING the London Marathon is a huge achievement by any standards - but for a team stepping out in support of St Elizabeth Hospice it will be extra special.

Most of the fundraisers are running in memory of a loved one they have lost from a terminal illness and crossing the finishing line will be extremely emotional.

The six strong team has endured months of grueling training and are now gearing up for the big day on April 26.

Michael Collins, 33, from Ipswich, is running his first marathon in memory of his brother, Amos, who was cared for by the Ipswich based charity.

He said: “I just wanted to say thank-you. Amos was only 30 when he died in 1998 and although he passed away at home he was cared for at the hospice for a little while. They helped him right to the end and made him feel as comfortable as possible.”

Nikola Mann, 26, who is originally from Ipswich but now lives in Reading and works for charity Parentline Plus, is also running her first marathon in memory of her grandmother who died in 2000.

She said: “Having a family member in a hospice was a very difficult time for us all, but the staff and volunteers at St Elizabeth were truly amazing, providing comfort and a listening ear at any time.

“Their work is invaluable and all too often overlooked, and so I couldn't think of a better charity to run 26 miles around London for.”

Vic Brooks, 39, from Kesgrave, is running his first marathon in memory of his granddad.

Michelle Howard, 37, from Ipswich, is running her first marathon in memory of her husband, Tony, who was cared for by the hospice in 2007.

Matt Carter, 35, from Shotley Gate, has been trying to get a place in the marathon for three years and will be running to remember his father who was looked after by St Elizabeth in 2005.

Prison officer Fred Davidson, from Ufford near Woodbridge, 39, is running his fourth marathon.

Star reporter Craig Robinson is also joining the team after running a campaign which raised more than �80,000 for the hospice.

If you would like to sponsor any of the runners please contact Laura Backhouse at the St Elizabeth fundraising office on 01473 707026 or email laura.backhouse@stelizabethhospice.org.uk .