Why the London Marathon at the age of 55?  I did Couch to 5k about 4 years ago as part of a parents group at my children’ athletics club. I am always telling the children I work with to ‘take their opportunities’ and this was mine!  I learned to run, I lost 2 stone in weight and I went down 2 dress sizes.  So when Hear Together, needed London Marathon runners I jumped at the opportunity. 

Why sponsor me for Hear Together?  Hear Together is the new charity, grown from The Ear Foundation (TEF), which I was associated with for over 20 years.  When TEF had to close I was sad to my core.  My younger brother, who is far wiser than I’d realised when I was a child, said to me to focus upon ‘consolation’ not ‘desolation’, because at the time I felt so sad, and devastated about the loss to the families.  Focussing upon ‘consolation’, and ‘consolidating’ really pulled things together and gave me purpose and vision. It showed me the huge need there was for the Hear Together services and support, and how desperate things were without them.  My feelings became more optimistic, hopeful of change and gave me energy and drive.  So it was with purpose and vision and feelings of excitement and in trepidation that I joined with Sarah, Diana, Laura and the 4 Hear Together Trustees to create Hear Together.  As a member of the HT team I am so privileged to see first hand the amazing impact Hear Together has on all those who join with our work.  As a new charity every donation small or large makes a huge difference, I tangibly see the impact of each £20, £50, £100.  It’s changing lives! 

This is a huge challenge for me. I hope I make it to the start line injury free.  The training is gruelling and I am slow but very committed! Thank you for sponsoring me and the Hear Together team.  Thank you for all your encouragement and messages. I will certainly need them to get round. 

Clare

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