London Marathon Runners 2023
This April, the London Marathon returns and we have an amazing team of runners who are taking on this incredible challenge while also raising vital funds for St Wilfrid’s Hospice! We wanted to share some of their stories about why they are taking on the run and helping raise money.
James Etheridge
I lost my brother in January 2020 after a short but courageous battle with throat cancer.
During Jason’s final months he was cared for by the incredible staff at St. Wilfrid’s.
I wanted to give back what I could for all the time and care they gave to him during his stay.
In the summer of 2020 I jumped 15,000ft from a plane which was one of the best things I have ever done, though it was a “challenge” there was no real prep needed other than 5 minutes of training before we took off!
This time round it’s all about endurance and a lot more training needed. Even though I know this will challenge me further, it’s nothing compared to the challenges my brother faced during his own illness and those who continue their own fight against this horrible disease.
Thank you for your donation, it means so much and will help the Hospice continue to provide much needed care for others like my brother.
Support James’ training here:


Charlotte Stubbs
I’m Charlotte Stubbs, I’m 34 and a nurse working in operating theatre at St Richards. I am a mum of 2 and am currently on maternity leave as my most recent child was born in September so I’m enjoying time with my kids and getting in my marathon training and the big 26.2 miles day before going back to work.
I have chosen to run for St Wilfrids as 10 years ago my mum sadly passed away when I was 24 years old. We were lucky enough to use the services of the Hospice at Home team meaning she was able to stay in her home comforts, surrounded by family which was incredible.
I am a keen runner but have done nothing over 10 miles before. I knew people would donate to encourage me to go the marathons distance and although I was lucky enough to get a space in the ballot I wanted to use the opportunity to give back to St Wilfrids with however much I manage to raise.
I have done fundraiser events for the Hospice since losing my mum and have really enjoyed it. Involving the community with family fun days and seeing how generous everyone could be for a local service that I know is mostly funded by charity donations. Everyone in the area has a link to the Hospice one way or another and if I can do anything to get some funding I will! Wish me luck!
Support Charlotte’s Training here:
Sarah Haig
I’ve wanted to participate in the iconic London Marathon for as long as I can remember. It will be the second time I’ve taken part in a marathon & I’m very excited, but also nervous.
I joined the HR department at St Wilfrid’s Hospice in March 2022, and I was blown away by the amazing services we offer by a team of dedicated professional staff who care for and support patients and their loved ones. I also did not appreciate the huge value our volunteer roles have on the Hospice. I decided now was the time to take on this special challenge and to help to support St Wilfrid’s and the local community.
It takes approximately 8 million pounds to run the Hospice annually and the majority is raised through the generosity of our supporters, donors, and shoppers. Many of us already have a personal connection with St Wilfrid’s and many more of us will do so in the future. I am keen to raise awareness about St Wilfrid’s and the services they offer by bringing the local community together to support this special charity.
Support Sarah’s Training here:


Phil Waller
I began running in 2019, to lose weight after a diagnosis of Type 2 diabetes, which, after losing 4 stone, has thankfully been in remission for two years.
Much to my surprise, I now find I am somewhat addicted to running, my most recent “target” being running 5,000 miles in 1,000 calendar days.
I have chosen to run for St Wilfrid’s Hospice because they are a local charity and I know of many local people who have loved ones that have received end of life care at St Wilfrid’s.
So far the training is going good. I don’t like the cold at the moment. 175 miles in January including 15, 17 and 18 mile long runs.