Hello, my name is Katie and I’m running the London Marathon 2022 for a charity very close to my heart - St Luke’s Hospice. As I am sure most of you are aware, St Luke’s is funded by donations so every contribution is life changing.

You may be wondering why I’ve chosen to embark on those very difficult but memorable 26.2 miles and here’s my story:

In May 2020, I lost one of the most important men in my life, my precious grandad. St Lukes were there for us when we needed guidance and support. But most importantly they were there for my grandad when he needed them most, ensuring he was comfortable and out pain. No amount of money will ever be enough to repay them.  Our gratitude is eternal. There were times where we were lost in the dark, especially with the pandemic, though that was the least of our worries, and they reminded us where to turn to. They knew we needed them, before we did. I’m so pleased to be given the opportunity to give something back to St Luke’s! 

In June 2014, we lost my aunty Mandy to a brain tumour. She was a beloved mum, daughter, sister, aunt and friend. For me, this was my first big loss, and St Luke’s tried their hardest to make it easy. Without the support and care given, our time with her would’ve been painfully stressful. St Luke’s Hospice isn’t just a home for the terminally ill, it’s also home for those spending hours watching their loved one slip away. The nurses cared for Mandy physically and my family mentally, they were a listening ear and a soothing voice we didn’t know we needed.

St Luke’s Hospice have gone above and beyond for my family in so many ways and I want to do the same for them, so please be generous and give every penny you can. You never know when you’re going to need the type of help that St Luke’s Hospice provides. 

Thank you 

Katie Alston xx