Supporting Alison in the London Marathon

It’s the 43rd annual edition of the world-famous London Marathon this Sunday (23 April 2023) and we have two employees participating. We have been supporting them in their Macmillan fundraising through the promotion of their JustGiving pages. 

Here our Clinical Operations Manager, Alison Southwood talks about her training and how you can support her by donating. 

Back in October 2022 I submitted my application for the London Marathon which was endorsed by Macmillan as they are Advo’s charity partner and I was lucky enough to secure a space in the race. 

Unfortunately, I have several links with the charity Macmillan. We lost my mother-in-law to cancer 7 years ago and my mum was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2015 and then again in 2017, but thankfully she is now in remission and doing well. 

Everyone I know who has been supported by Macmillan speaks so highly of them when it comes to the emotional and practical support they received. With the personal links I have, I really wanted to acknowledge the incredible support this organisation has given my friends and family by raising money for them. 

I previously ran the London Marathon back in 2000 for the NSPCC and I swore to never do it again, but here I am going back on my word. I am excited to have my daughter support me along the route this time as previously when I participated she was only four years old so she couldn’t attend. 

My training hit a bit of a rocky start at they beginning as I just found that life got in the way. Although, I have been back on track for a while now and I’m following the approved TCS beginner’s training plan as well as adding in an extra 5K on a Saturday at the local Park Run. 

When I first hit 10 miles in my training, I started to believe for the first time that I can actually do this. After every training session, I noticed small but positive improvements in my running which kept me motivated. 

I turned 50 this year and my knees aren’t as young as they used to be so I want to complete the challenge whilst also making a difference in terms of fundraising for Macmillan. 

As the marathon approaches I have faced a whole mix of emotions which change on a daily basis. I have felt apprehensive, excited, emotional and scared but I know this will all be worth it when I cross that finish line. 

My fundraising for Macmillan has been really successful so far and I have been overwhelmed by the support I have received. I understand that times are difficult at the moment, but if you are able to donate any amount, I would be truly grateful. You can donate via my JustGiving page here.