The Cardiff Half Marathon returns this October, and among those taking on the challenge is City Hospice’s Welfare Rights Officer, Katie Tucker.
Katie has worked at City Hospice for the past 12 years, helping patients and families navigate life with a life-limiting illness. Through her role, she sees first-hand the impact that charitable support has on the people who rely on hospice care. Now, she is lacing up her running shoes and taking on her very first half marathon to raise vital funds for causes close to her heart.
Katie said:
“I’ve worked at City Hospice for the last 12 years, supporting patients and families as a Welfare Rights Officer, so I see first-hand how much support and funding is needed for us to continue our work.
I think, like many people, I’ve been a bystander when it comes to supporting charities at times. It’s only when your life can suddenly change that you realise the true impact of charitable support and just how important these organisations are. That’s why I’m running to raise funds, raise awareness and support vital charities.”
Although Katie admits she is “not a runner in the slightest”, she has spent the last nine months training for the challenge.
“It’s a challenge I never thought I would sign up to. I’ve been training for the last nine months to make sure I can cross that finish line and still turn up to work the next day.
I’m so proud to be running for City Hospice and to have all my colleagues behind me.”
Alongside City Hospice, Katie is also raising money for Welsh Dragon Burns, a charity that supported her family following her son’s accident.
“Running for Welsh Dragon Burns is incredibly meaningful to me. They helped me and my family during a terrible time following my son’s accident.
The bravery and strength he showed, just like the patients and families I’ve supported during my time at the hospice, is what helps me push through the miles.”
What started as a daunting challenge has become something Katie has grown to love.
“I have actually enjoyed training. When I first went along to my local running club, I didn’t even make it to 1k. There is no better competition than your own mind, and those Garmin stats!
Most of my training takes place after a day at work and once my boys are in bed. Off I go, hitting the tarmac with my reflections from the day. It’s definitely something I hope to continue.”
As race day approaches, Katie is feeling excited and ready to represent City Hospice.
“It’s such a great event that brings everyone together and delivers a simple but important message: helping charities survive and thrive. I’m feeling so excited and ready to run for the Hospice.”
