Samaritans were honoured to be this year’s London Marathon Charity of the Year and almost 500 runners from Samaritans took part in order to raise vital funds to ensure we continue to be there to help.
Two of our Branch Deputy Directors, Sarah and Mike, went down to the capital and spent the day in one of the 15 designated emotional support hubs that were along the route. The event always has an amazing atmosphere but not everyone was in high spirits and spectators were able to enter the hubs and be assured of a warm welcome and a listening ear. There was also a hub available at the end of the route for any runners who needed support after the event.
Samaritans Hub, London Marathon 2024
On the eve of the marathon there was a ‘Running Show’ at which there were boards containing ‘bubbles’ where runners and their supporters could share their feelings and say why they ‘believe in tomorrow’. Behind each one of the statements written in the bubbles there’s probably a very moving story to be told.
Coventry volunteers Sarah and Mike at the pre-marathon Running Show
Meanwhile one of our volunteers, Karen, completed the London Marathon ‘My Way’ as part of 'Team Samaritans', whereby she covered the 26.2 miles not in London but in the beautiful nearby Warwickshire countryside.
Karen and John - just another 5 miles to go...
A foot injury prevented Karen from running but, undaunted and supported by her husband John, she managed to walk the full distance and still exceed her fundraising target. She was however left with several aching muscles and was minus a couple of toe nails!!
I was so proud to be part of the Samaritans London Marathon MyWay team, helping to raise awareness and funds for our vital work. I couldn't have asked for better weather on the day and I'm so grateful for the support and sponsorship I've received.
Karen, Coventry volunteer
You can still donate to Karen's fundraising page here