Royal Parks Half Marathon Spotlight – Louisa & Rachel
02 October 2023
Louisa and Rachel are taking on this challenge to raise funds for the Paediatric Psychology Service at St George’s Hospital, the area in which they both work. In this department, they often meet families in acute crisis and support them by teaching practical strategies to help them cope with the challenges of having surgery, a long-term illness and hospital admissions.
They want to support this area further by raising funds to purchase therapeutic resources (toys, workbooks etc), and equipment for the patients they see, and ensure their team can access the most up-to-date teaching and training.
They said: "We are passionate about our work, and wanted to raise money to allow us to buy resources for the children and team we work with.
"Everyone at St George’s works so hard, and really cares about the patients we see, but unfortunately, the NHS does not always have enough money to pay for those little extra things that can really make a difference to a patient’s journey."
For Rachel, who previously ran the London Marathon for St George's Hospital 15 years ago, she said that she chose a half marathon this time around to be kinder to her aging knees. Meanwhile, this marks Louisa's debut in a half marathon, but she enjoys running regularly so is up for the challenge.
They are both working mums, so have found it hard to find the time to train. However, when they find the time and get past the first 5km, they enjoy it: "Nothing beats the amazing feeling you get after a long run!
"And it is so good for your mental health, which is something as psychologists we really advocate."
Rachel and Louisa are both really excited to be running the Royal Parks Half Marathon and we are equally delighted to have them on board. A huge thanks to everyone that has sponsored them so far, if you would still like to support you can donate to their pages below:
Rachel’s Fundraising Page
Louisa’s Fundraising Page
