TWO women will be taking on the London Marathon later this month in support of a Great Malvern based charity.
Emily Reid and Sara Hernandez-Cox will be running the marathon to raise funds for the Association for Rehabilitation of Communication and Oral Skills (ARCOS).
ARCOS, who’s headquarters are in the Malvern’s town centre, work to improve the lives of children and adults who require physical rehabilitation and have difficulties with communication, eating, drinking and/or swallowing.
Emily, a member of Hertfordshire based Ware Joggers, said: “My sister works for ARCOS, so it’s become a bit of a family charity for us.
“The London Marathon will be my third road marathon but my biggest challenge to date. London, due to its sheer enormity and popularity, will be loud and crowded and will be 26 miles of over-stimulation.
“I am therefore running in mind of all the neurodiverse children and adults that have passed through ARCOS and other such organisations; for whom every day and every environment is like the London Marathon.
“Training has gone well so far. I had a short break for a strained hamstring but have put in over 550 miles so far. I have run in rain, snow and finally this week the sun!
“I am now looking forward to getting the marathon done.”
Sara, who works at Malvern Wells CE Primary School, said: “I am a mum of two children aged 11 and six, and have lived in Malvern for 23 years.
“As a local primary school teacher, I am passionate about teaching as well as inspiring young children to grow up with a real love of physical activity and sport.
“When I was offered the chance to participate in the London Marathon, I was extremely excited by this new challenge and so grateful to be given this exciting opportunity.
“I am intrigued by the possibilities of what the body is capable of and I love both the mental and physical aspects of training.
“I am used to running on the hills so swapping the trail shoes for road running trainers will be a little different for me, but I can’t wait to get to the start line.
“I feel extremely privileged to be running for such an amazing charity. I am in awe of the commitment and all the valuable projects ARCOS do that really make such difference to improving the lives of others. I just hope I will do the team proud!”
Staff, pupils and parents at the school will mark the occasion with a special day of marathon-themed activities.
ARCOS clinical director Kay Coombes said: “We’re delighted that Sara and Emily have chosen to support us in this great challenge, and we wish them all the best in their training and on the day itself.”
Click here to support their fundraiser.
