Simon’s story
Simon recently took on the incredible challenge of running 48km in 24 hours to raise money for St Gemma’s in memory of his wife, Katie, who was cared for at St Gemma’s in 2019. Simon tells us his story:
“I decided to do 48km in 24 hours because I knew it would be hard. Having to run 2km every hour would be both physically and mentally exhausting but nothing compared to what patients have to go through.
We started at midday on Saturday because we knew that the pub would be open at midday on Sunday when we finished! My best friend Gareth ran the whole thing with me, and other people ran parts as well. Throughout the whole challenge I got 1 hour sleep – the pint of beer was worth it at the end! And the total we raised was amazing.
St Gemma’s were amazing too – not just to Katie, but to me and the kids as well. Katie was nervous about going into a hospice because she was relatively young, but she need not have worried. The staff looked after her with such care, and they took the time to play with the kids and make them feel part of it as well. The whole place had a feeling of calm, and this definitely helped us.
The counselling I had after Katie’s death was just what I needed at the time. I don’t think I’ve ever come across staff who are so dedicated and caring and that’s why I decided to do my challenge. Thank you for looking after Katie and my family.”