With just one week to go until the Great North Run we want to share with you Katie Woodward and her son Liam's GNR story:
Why have you chosen to support Willow Burn Hospice? Willow Burn has supported many people that I know over the years, including my grandmother and more recently my good friend Nicola's mam Daphne. It is such an important place to so many people in Derwentside that I really wanted to lend my support to contribute in a small way towards ensuring that the hospice can continue it's great work. My fundraising is a joint effort with my 3 year old son Liam who is running the Mini Great North Run the day before the main event.
How do you feel about the Great North Run? I'm really excited, but also nervous about the Great North Run. I've ran it once before back in 2002 just after my grandma died and the atmosphere was amazing! There's so much support and encouragement from the crowd and fellow runners that I can't wait to experience that again. Liam is also very excited about his run and I'm really looking forward to being a part of that with him.
What do you think will be the toughest part of the challenge? Running for such a long time! I love running, but normally only run about 5k or just over. The GNR is over 20k so it's a big step up! I think miles 6-10 will really hurt, but then I'm hoping things will get easier as I get nearer the finish line.
What encouragement would you give to other people thinking of doing a challenge for Willow Burn? Just do it! I've really had to push myself outside of my comfort zone to do this, but I've already achieved way more both physically and emotionally than I ever thought I could. People are so kind and generous in their donations towards fundraising as well that it really is a very humbling, fulfilling experience.
Good Luck Katie and Liam. Thank you for sharing your Great North Run story - Team Willow Burn are behind you every step of the way.
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