On Sunday 21 April 2024, thousands of people will take to the streets of the capital to take part in the iconic London Marathon. Among them are Chris, Collette and Perl – some of the runners who are taking part to fundraise in aid of Emmaus UK. We spoke to them to ask why they have chosen to run for Emmaus.
Chris
“Emmaus offers essential help to people who need it, in a day and age where homelessness should not exist in this country.”
A keen runner, Chris, who lives in Liverpool, is taking on his first full marathon. He said:
“I’m 40-years-old, married and have two children – a ten-year-old boy and a girl aged six. I spent time in the forces and then worked at Cadent for 12 years, where I’m currently working as a Energy Operation Area Manager. I enjoy running, spending time with my family, taking holidays and camping. I’m currently trying to complete the 214 wainwrights in the Lake District.
“I’m running for Emmaus because the charity offers essential help to people who need it, in a day and age where homelessness should not exist in this country. I’ve completed a number of marathons but never a full marathon.
“Personal pride and fulfilling the promise to those who have sponsored me will keep me going to the finish line.”
Collette
“Everyone needs to know about Emmaus and the hope it brings to so many vulnerable people.”
Collette from Folkestone in Kent is a Trustee at Emmaus Dover and has worked alongside Emmaus professionally for many years. She said:
“I’ve seen first hand the amazing work that goes on and how Emmaus changes people’s lives. It gives people a sense of purpose, community and safety. I want to shout about that. Because, for a charity that offers such a life changing thing, it’s still not a household name. And it should be. Everyone needs to know about Emmaus and the hope it brings to so many vulnerable people.
“I live in a seaside town and can see France from the shore, that how far south I am. I have three children, ranging from 15 to 22 years old, and have a needy but adorable Doberman called Vinny. As mentioned, I am a Trustee for Dover Emmaus. I work for Southeastern Railway as the Trespass and Suicide Reduction Manager, which is a fairly new job for me after spending 20 years in the Probation Service.”
Determined to enjoy it more this year
“I am a member of my local running club in Folkestone and also Green Runners and a vegan running club too. I’m a Buddhist and so raising the money for Emmaus is important for spiritually too. I love plants and adventure and the sea and nature and joy. I’m not a fan of blisters, chafing, competition or training in the dark.
“London was my first marathon in 2018. It was the hottest on record and I felt it. I really struggled. I recall a few stops to sit in a stifling portaloo to have a sob. Since then I’ve also run Loch Ness and Manchester marathons and completed an Ultra marathon. This is my second London and I’m determined to enjoy it more than the first time round! I have underlying health issues in terms of a few bowel conditions which can make training challenging and I’m also worry about that in relation to my performance on the day. But I’m determined to look around, chat, enjoy the atmosphere and take it all in because London is iconic.
“Getting to the end feeling strong and happy is enough for me. I haven’t planned anything past that! I’ll go home with my medal happy knowing I did a little something that day to help people less fortunate than I am.”
Perl
“I am running for Emmaus to show solidarity for people experiencing homelessness and to share the message that it needs to end.”
Originally from France, Perl aims to tick off a bucket list item while supporting Emmaus. She said:
“I am 26, I am Civil Engineer and I live to travel. I currently live in the UK and love it! I am so glad to be running a marathon and making forever memories with Emmaus. I am running to show solidarity for people experiencing homelessness and to share the message that it needs to end.
“The marathon is a way to challenge myself – 26 miles for 26 years. I need goals to look forward, and a marathon was on 2024 bucket list. While I run I like listening to the podcast Affaires Sensibles, which is obviously in French.
“My friends are what will keep me going to the finish line. But also the journey and the discipline. The race is the fun. I cannot wait to hug my friends when I am done and be proud of the achievement. The rest is all about photos, food and rest!”
Good luck to all our runners taking part in the London Marathon 2024!
If you’re feeling inspired and want to make a donation in support of our Marathon runners, you can give using the form below.