Oxfordshire residents are being encouraged to don their running shoes this spring in support of Sue Ryder.
The Reading Half Marathon will see around 14,000 people take to the streets of the town on Sunday 03 April, with many raising vital funds for causes close to their hearts.
This year, national healthcare charity, Sue Ryder, is inviting seasoned professionals and casual joggers to sign up to support the charity’s palliative care hub in South Oxfordshire.
With the Sue Ryder Palliative Care Hub South Oxfordshire reliant on generous supporters donating and fundraising – especially as it continues to recover from the effects of the pandemic – it is calling on local residents to line up behind the start line of this year’s Half Marathon and apply for a guaranteed charity place.
Meghan Bentley, Community Fundraiser, said: “We’re so excited for the Reading Half Marathon to return this year, and we’d love to hear from local people who would like to join our team donning the famous ‘Team Sue Ryder’ vest to support our vital services.
“Whether you’re an experienced runner with multiple races under your belt, or you’ve set yourself a health and fitness goal for 2022, this is the perfect challenge to work towards. All funds raised will help us continue to provide the compassionate care we are so well known for and fill last days with love.”
Maz Elsome, a Reading resident, ran last year’s Reading Half Marathon for Sue Ryder Palliative Care Hub South Oxfordshire in memory of her dad, Pete, and is lacing up her trainers once more next month to take on the challenge alongside her husband.
Reflecting on the care her dad received from Sue Ryder Nurses, Maz said: “I am absolutely humbled by the work that Sue Ryder do, not only at the palliative care stage but their aftercare for families is second-to-none too. I could not have been prouder to wear their logo on my running vest that day.
“I would encourage anyone thinking of taking on a half marathon to give it a go – it’s an amazing sense of achievement, and the atmosphere is incredible. Most of all, it’s a wonderful feeling to support a good cause and help other local families receive the support they need in difficult times.”
People running for Sue Ryder will receive support every step of the way, including a Sue Ryder running vest or T-shirt, access to training tips and advice from Sue Ryder’s very own professional coach, Nick, a cheer point on race day and a charity reception after crossing the finish line.
Entry for the Reading Half Marathon is £25 with a fundraising target of £145, which will make all the difference to patients and families needing Sue Ryder’s expert care.
To sign up and find out more, visit sueryder.org/support-us/fundraise/events/reading-half-marathon-2022 or email southoxfordshire.fundraising@sueryder.org.
Visit sueryder.org/southox for more information about Sue Ryder Palliative Care Hub South Oxfordshire.
