Phil Swarbrick, who works at an international research and publishing organisation is running his second ever marathon.
After a slow start thanks to covid at New Year, I'm now in the swing of things. I'm running 2-3 times per week (I'm up to 14 miles for my weekend long run), plus some walking, yoga and swimming. For me, the biggest challenge is worrying about getting injured- I'm prone to 'maranoia' where every little tweak feels like the end of the road! But if I'm careful, confident, and don't overdo anything, I'll be lining up in my Samaritans vest on the big day.
Samaritans isn't just about urgent care for those on the edge - they provide very valuable listening to all manner of people who need support coping with life. This includes people with psychological challenges or with recurring problems in many elements of their family or personal situations.
Phil
We are incredibly grateful for the money Phil is raising alongside our other marathon runners. The Oxford Samaritans branch is run entirely by volunteers and is open 24/7, every day of the year. £5 can fund a call; a conversation that could save a life. £200 trains a new volunteer to build the skills they need to be there for someone struggling to cope.
Viv Hemming, director of Oxford Samaritans