Bristol local to run virtual London Marathon in aid of Penny Brohn UK

Bristol local to run virtual London Marathon in aid of Penny Brohn UK

Posted on: 01 Oct 2020

Sarah, from Bedminster, has challenged herself to run 26.2 miles around the Bristol Harbourside.

 

Bristolian Sarah Bird is set to run this year's virtual London Marathon in memory of her friend, Chris, who died of a brain tumour aged 48.

 

Having survived breast cancer herself, Sarah will be raising money for Bristol-based charity Penny Brohn UK, who supported both Sarah and Chris throughout their diagnoses and treatments.

 

With the regular London Marathon postponed due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, the race is set to be run virtually by competitors around the world.

 

On Sunday 4 October, with the help of friends and mentors, Sarah will be aiming to run a total of 26.2 miles around the Bristol Harbourside, adding up to between eight and nine long laps of her route.

Sarah Bird (right) will be running 26.2 miles in memory of her friend Chris.Sarah Bird (left) will be running 26.2 miles in memory of her friend Chris.

 

"Chris inspired many people during her short life, including me," Sarah explains.

 

"She had the most powerful and encouraging 'Yesssssss' I have ever encountered. I will try to run these 26.2 miles in her memory, in solidarity with all that she held dear.

 

"She was damn good company, so I'm sincerely hoping that she is going to be with me in spirit."

 

With over 40 years' experience caring for people affected by cancer, Penny Brohn UK understands that people need more than just medicine to live well with the disease. 

 

Penny Brohn is the only charity in the UK to adopt an integrated whole-person approach to cancer support, using evidence-based therapies alongside treatment to achieve the best possible results. 

 

Exploring areas like diet, exercise, emotions, relationships and managing stress, their free courses, one-to-one therapies and group sessions work alongside standard medical treatment to achieve the best health and wellbeing results for patients.

 

 

Sarah adds: "Both Chris and I enjoyed the invaluable support of Penny Brohn UK - I was diagnosed with breast cancer just months after her death.

 

"The people and services offered by Penny Brohn are a lifeline to many people who are living with curable and incurable cancers.

 

"My main memory of Penny Brohn is of being held in gentle warmth, surrounded by care, being fed delicious food and offered practical help and counselling as I slowly came to terms with the reality of being a cancer patient.

 

Penny Brohn is an absolute lifeline, giving us a sense of power and some control over our lives, instead of the helplessness that constant hospital visits can bring. I have now been free of cancer for almost 5 years, but still use Penny Brohn’s services.

 

Sarah has so far raised over £3,200 of a £5,000 target for her Marathon challenge, which will provide a huge boost to Penny Brohn during a difficult period for the charity.

 

Head to Sarah's JustGiving page to follow her progress and donate, or visit the Penny Brohn website for more information.

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Article by:

Matt Robson

 

Editor - 365Bristol.com & LOUD Magazine
 

Matt is a Journalism graduate and writer, passionate about supporting Bristol music, art and independent business. Get in touch via email at matt@365bristol.com.