Determined colleagues have reflected with pride after flying the flag for East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) and completing the Great Eastern Run.
Jan Stanbury-Jones, Lucy Brumpton and Matt Plummer signed up for the challenge and pounded the streets of Peterborough on Sunday morning.
They were joined at the popular half-marathon by four other runners supporting EACH and, between them, they collectively managed to raise more than £3,200.
Jan, Lucy and Matt are part of a cross-organisational working group helping make more Peterborough families aware of the care and support EACH provides.
Jan is a Specialist Child and Young Person Counsellor based at EACH’s hospice in Milton.
“There was a fantastic atmosphere, with so many spectators, friends and family cheering us on, and it was especially meaningful to take part alongside my colleagues, who supported and encouraged one another throughout training and on event day,” she said.
“I felt particularly proud running through the streets of Peterborough, where I regularly visit children, young people and their families to provide wellbeing support. We waved our flags during the run and handed them out to the crowd, and there was a wonderful sense of connection and community.
“It was a truly special experience, and the generosity of those who donated and provided encouragement helped keep me going when the miles became challenging.”
EACH launched its new care strategy earlier this year, setting out how it plans to grow and transform services to support more families.
It is underpinned by seven key commitments, and one of them is ‘We Will Be Inclusive’. This means welcoming every child, young person and family who needs support, making sure no-one is left out.
Peterborough is a key focus, given its diversity and the wide range of communities that call the city home.
“The Great Eastern Run was both a challenge and a privilege,” said Head of Care Transformation and Development Lucy.
“There were moments when the miles felt tough, but the incredible support from the crowd and encouragement of my colleagues kept me moving forward.
“I felt immensely proud to be running in support of EACH, and seeing people recognise and cheer for our charity throughout the route was a reminder of the difference our work makes and the generosity of the communities we serve.
“I’ve been truly humbled by the incredible donations received. Knowing so many people chose to support EACH and the families we care for provided extra motivation on the day and made reaching the finish even more special.”
In addition to the EACH runners, a team of supporters was there on the day, with a cheer point along the route and a presence near the finish line.
“While I was running, I thought about the families I’ve had the privilege of meeting through my role, and knowing I was helping raise awareness made crossing the finish line even more meaningful,” said Media and PR Manager Matt.
“I was proud to wear my purple EACH top and, if seeing it prompted just one person to learn more about our charity, start a conversation about the support available or feel a little less alone, then every mile was worthwhile.”
