Hi all, this year I’m running the Great North Run (for the first time ever) in support of the Great North Air Ambulance! GNAAS is a charity close to my heart as I see the impact it has on the lives of people in our community on a daily basis.

GNAAS is 100% charity funded and costs >£5 million a year to respond to the 999 calls of the most seriously ill and injured patients in our region. 

Many of you will know that I’m a life long hater of running and my trusty trainers have been with me for >10 years (I don’t trouble them much)!  Struggling to juggle the demands of a busy job in the NHS, the air ambulance, the Army Reserve and 2 young children, I found myself at my most unfit ever at the start of 2022. 

I’ve challenged myself to get fit and do something useful at the same time and as running is the only thing I could fit into my week, here we are. Having spent many a year working in the medical tent at the finish line I’ve always said I’d like to do the GNR once in my life.  And if I get round in one piece without needing the help of my colleagues on a professional basis I’ll be over the moon. 

So the is year, I’m aiming to do something for myself and others - I’ve challenged myself to get fit, complete the GNR half marathon in my home town and raise funds for the life saving services in the region! 

If you feel you have any spare change to sponsor me, it’s going to a hugely worthwhile cause and I really appreciate it! 

Thanks millions,

Rachel x