A resilient runner said she felt ‘proud and overwhelmed’ after battling through an agonising knee injury to complete her first London Marathon.
Anna Bruce, 24, raised more than £1,600 for East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) – the charity she works for as a Senior Corporate Fundraiser for Suffolk.
She described the experience as ‘amazing’ and was delighted with her achievement, despite saying it was the toughest challenge of her life.
“Given everything that happened with my knee, and the overwhelming sense of anxiety I felt in the morning, I’m incredibly proud of myself,” said Anna.
“I proved to myself that I’m tougher and more stubborn than I think, because I was so determined to finish and get a medal.
“I knew I’d regret it if I didn’t and felt motivated because of all the people that have supported me and donated.
“I also kept thinking about the amazing charity I was representing – one I care so passionately about. I didn’t want to let anyone down and felt immensely proud to be raising funds and awareness for EACH.”
Having experienced issues with her right knee during training, Anna’s problems escalated dramatically on race day – except this time it was on the other side.
“After 16 miles, my knee felt like it was fizzing,” she said.
“That may sound odd, but it’s the only way I can describe it.
“I saw my family just after and stopped to tell them something wasn’t right.
“I was really struggling, and then a couple of miles later my knee completely locked.
“It was horrific – complete agony – and I ended up hobbling for the remaining eight and a bit miles, having to keep my leg completely straight.
“It meant I was having to put all my weight on the right-hand side of my body, which has been in pieces ever since.”
After receiving support at a medical tent, where her knee was strapped, Anna was determined to push on.
“It was a real slog and the hardest challenge I’ve faced, but the support was incredible,” she said.
“People kept shouting my name and it helped so much, especially when I was struggling.
“It really kept me going, and other runners were checking on me and walking alongside me. It was lovely and gave me such a boost.
“Now I’ve done it, I can honestly say it was an amazing experience – a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and something I’m so pleased to tick off my bucket list.”
Anna, who lives near Sudbury, was cheered on by her family and friends, and said she was inspired to take on the challenge after watching her dad complete the London Marathon in 2011.
She also said she was grateful for the backing she has received from fellow members of Fortify Run Club.
To show your support and sponsor Anna, head here.
Anna was one of eight determined runners representing EACH in London on Sunday – collectively raising around £12,000.
Joining her on the start line were James Welham, Steven Jennings, Verity Wilson, Jade Borley, Sam Flude, Megan Ward and Zarine Dastur.
