The London Marathon is an iconic event and an unforgettable experience for participating runners. It’s also a great opportunity for our supporters to raise money for ECHO, for which we are really grateful – we receive no government or NHS funding to carry out our work, and rely entirely on donations to continue supporting heart patients and their families.
Four people will run the London Marathon for the ECHO Team on Sunday 22 April: Rocio, Kate, Des, and Liz.
Rocio
“Running has become part of my lifestyle. I have been running for more than 2 years and competing around the world in different races. However, if there is a race that overexcites me, it’s the London Marathon. Being able to combine one of my passions with the possibility of fundraising money for ECHO is my next challenge. I will feel super accomplished by helping ECHO with my efforts. Thank you for giving me this opportunity!”
Check out Rocio’s fundraising page here
Kate
“I will be running for ECHO in this year’s London Marathon. We have been wanting to give something back for so long, and the ECHO Team have been brilliant by granting me a place. I always said I would do this if our son had a gap in operations. We have been given another 18 months or so until OHS#3, although we have just received confirmation that GOSH will be doing a large (non-cardiac) OP around June. Like so many families, the emotions that we go through vary from day to day, year to year, as we follow the journey of our little heart warriors and all the angels above.
The Evelina is just the most amazing hospital, bursting with brilliant, kind and hard-working people. Behind the scenes, ECHO is there to support families in every way – somewhere to go when we are lost for answers, somewhere to go when we need support and understanding.
I hope very much that I can raise both money and awareness for ECHO and CHD this year. The ECHO team do a wonderful job and we would be lost without them. If you see “Run for Rupert”/”ECHO”, then please cheer me on. This body was not built for running!”
Check out Kate’s fundraising page here
Des
“I was due to run the London Marathon in 2017, but due to injury I had to pull out. I am now back, ready to take on this iconic challenge this year. I am running for my daughter Abigail. In 2011, Abigail was admitted to the Evelina and I have seen first-hand the hard work and dedication shown by all the members of staff at the Evelina, which helped my wife and me get through the toughest time of our lives. This is my small way of giving something back to the amazing people who do such remarkable work for sick children.”
Check out Des’s fundraising page here
Liz
“I am happy to be running for ECHO. After having had day-to-day contact with the Evelina, I have gotten to see the positive impact ECHO has for patients, parents and staff. I am excited, terrified and honoured to take part, all at the same time!”
Check out Liz’ fundraising page here