The London Marathon in memory of Mary Hall

Our London Marathon fundraising this time is on behalf of the STROKE ASSOCIATION in conjunction with the LLWYNYPIA STROKE UNIT Pontypridd, South Wales, where Mary received wonderful care following her first stroke three years ago.

Mary loved life; at the age of 70 she was still enjoying her work as a pharmacist, she led a full social life with a network of supportive friends, and had numerous hobbies and interests. Mary's energy in terms of Continuing  Education was phenomenal, she had been studying French for some time following exchange visits to France with the Cowbridge Art Society (through whom she both exhibited and sold paintings), and more recently she added to this the serious studying of Welsh, not to mention the achievement of an aromatherapy qualification. Mary was an active member of The Women's Pharmaceutical Society taking part in all their conferences and workshops, AND Mary loved food and good wine!

Suddenly, Mary was cruelly robbed of this full and active life by a stroke which left her unable to speak , read or write, and with little movement; she was either hospitalised or housebound in a wheelchair for the remainder of her life.

Well it's over and the old man achieved the Marathon in the fantastic time of 3 hours 46 minutes 29 seconds despite the fact that the heavens opened for a chunk of the race. You will see we have already exceeded our target and there are still monies to come in which is amazing. We attended the after race party given by the Stroke Association and were congratulated by the Chief Executive who reinforced the fact that the monies raised really do make a difference. Your generosity has been overwhelming, bless you all. Watch the page for further updates!