24 Aug 2022

100 half marathons in support of charities

For many, running a marathon is a challenge of a lifetime. But for Esther one marathon just was not enough. For the last seven years she has been running half marathons, to fundraise for different charities.

In 2022 Esther chose to support Leukaemia UK, completing her 100^th half marathon in July 2022.

This is her story.

Seven years ago, I laced up my running trainers for my first marathon. The London Marathon and it was a great experience, I decided to keep going and my 100-half marathon challenge begun. For the past seven years, my half marathon challenges have taken me around the country, with each year dedicated to one charity.

In 2022, I choose to support Leukaemia UK, because my close work colleague was diagnosed with leukaemia during the lockdown. I wanted to show her that I care deeply for her and that I am right behind her all the way!

Leukaemia UK has taken a genuine interest in my quest. I trust that Leukaemia UK’s charity will use the money raised to help fund ground-breaking research and care for those affected by leukaemia and other blood cancers.

When I started fundraising, I could not bring myself to set a target, however I have now raised over £1,500 for Leukaemia UK. I feel blessed with every single donation. The thought that someone has taken the time to think of the charity, and what I am trying to achieve.

For Leukaemia UK I have taken on the Berlin Half, Manx Mountain Fell Half, the Roma-Ostia Half, the Geneva Half, ING Luxembourg Night Half, Jersey Half and many more.

Running amuses me immensely as I thought I would never be able to run a single half, and now look here I am one of 234 members of the prestigious 100 Half Marathon Club UK.

We are so grateful for Esther’s support and look forward to hearing what challenge she will take on next.