Running for Ruth team reaches 100 members to tackle Great East Run in Suffolk

Left to right: Coes senior manager Steve Todd, Danny Mehmed and Coes running co-ordinator Jan Reeve. Picture: JAMES MEHMED (Image: Archant)

The Running for Ruth team began in 2015 when a large group came together for the Ipswich Half Marathon to join Danny Mehmed, who was running in memory of his wife Ruth.Ruth was diagnosed with a brain tumour in January 2014 and died following a near-year-long fight in December that year.

Originally featuring 52 runners to raise money for a bench in her memory, the team raised thousands of pounds for Brain Tumour Research.

Ruth Mehmed with daughter Lydia, which is on the backs of the shirts of the Running for Ruth participants (Image: Archant)

With the Great East Run announced as running through Ipswich this year, Danny, 42, and 43-year-old brother James decided to take on the challenge for the cause once again, and will be joined by a remarkable team of more than 100 runners who each have their own personal connection to the cause.

Some knew Ruth and the family personally, while others have family members who have suffered from brain tumours.

Left to right: James Mehmed, Lydia Mehmed and Danny Mehmed prepare for the Great East Run. Picture: NIGEL BROWN (Image: Archant)

“It’s overwhelming how many people came together,” Danny said.

“Ruth would be embarrassed such a big fuss was being made but she would be very humbled by everyone’s efforts.”

Danny Mehmed with Ruth and Lydia (Image: Archant)

Moved by Danny and daughter Lydia’s plight, many businesses and sponsors have been getting on board to support the Running for Ruth team.

Strip Tees has already provided shirts for the team with Ruth’s motto “Be in love with your life, every minute of it” on the back, while Coes has provided Danny with a pair of running trainers alongside other accessories for the team.

Coes running co-ordinator Jan Reeve presents Lydia Mehmed with her trainers. Picture: JAMES MEHMED (Image: Archant)

The store even gifted Lydia with her own pair of trainers.

After the run has been completed the team will be at the Arcade Tavern in Ipswich for a special gathering, with the bar laying on some special beers and donating to the occasion.

The Running for Ruth team which took part in the 2015 Ipswich Half Marathon. Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWN

Team-member Emma Deakin said: “As I struggle through each mile – I can only manage five –I think of Ruth, she gets me that bit further as she never gave up so I don’t either.”

The team is targeting £10,000 of sponsorship which will go to Brain Tumour Research.

To donate to the team, visit the fundraising page here.