At the end of 2019, I signed up for the Edinburgh Kilomathon (a 13.1k run) as I wanted to improve my running abilities. I was very much a beginner and up until that point I had struggled to complete a 5k run! I was also keen to raise money for charity and, with my aunt having sadly passed away in November 2019, I knew that Myeloma UK was the charity I wanted to raise money for.
Myeloma is a type of blood cancer. In the UK, around 5,500 people are diagnosed with Myeloma each year. There is not yet a cure for Myeloma, but cancer can sometimes be managed successfully with medication.
Myeloma UK is the only organization in the UK dealing exclusively with Myeloma. They are dedicated to helping Myeloma patients live longer and having the best possible quality of life as well as providing information and support services to patients, family and friends. Myeloma UK’s ultimate goal is to find a cure. For more information, please see https://www.myeloma.org.uk/
The Kilomathon was due to take place in April 2020 but, as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, it was postponed with a new date to be confirmed.
Like most people, during the first lockdown, I made the most of my daily exercise allowance and went out for a run or a walk every day. There were many negative aspects to the lockdown but improving my running was one positive that came out of it!
Ultimately, the Kilomathon went ahead as a “virtual” race in April 2021 due to Covid-19 restrictions. Training for it during the most recent lockdown was a lot tougher due to the winter weather and limited daylight. My friends, family and work colleagues’ generous donations to Myeloma UK helped to keep me motivated on those dark mornings!
I completed the Kilomathon in 1 hour and 15 minutes which was a time I was really happy with. It was quite strange running without a crowd or other runners to cheer each other on but I was determined to keep going and get to that “virtual” finish line!
In the end, we raised over £1300 for Myeloma UK which was an incredible achievement and one I am very proud of.
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