As we count down to the Virgin London Marathon 2013, we are celebrating the people who are training and fundraising in support of Anthony Nolan.
Gina Pennington from Kendal is celebrating turning 40 by running the marathon for Anthony Nolan dressed as superwoman.
Why are you running the Virgin London Marathon for Anthony Nolan?
My brother had leukaemia when he was younger, which was devastating for our family. The doctors told us that his only chance at life was to have a bone marrow transplant. Fortunately, my sister was able to donate to him but I found out afterwards that 70 percent of people aren’t as lucky as my brother – they can’t find a suitable donor within their family, so Anthony Nolan helps to find them an anonymous match. I started fundraising for Anthony Nolan because of the amazing work that they do, saving people like my brother.
What does this marathon mean to you?
This will be the 10 year anniversary of my first, and only, marathon! Apparently at nearly 40 I’m coming into my prime. Some people I’d met in my previous job had dared me to run and marathon. I was and am very proud of myself for completing my first marathon in 4 hours 15 minutes. But this time I have set myself the goal of doing it in under 4 hours! Hopefully with better training this time I can reach my goal.
Are you looking forward to the marathon?
With 2 weeks to go till the marathon, the sense of what I have to do is becoming a frightening reality. Despite an earlier knee injury, training is going well and I’m looking forward to getting my Wonder Woman outfit out again! I know that my brother is really proud of everything I’m doing which is a huge motivation!
What will be the first thing you will do when you finish the race?
First thing will be to find my family who will be out on the course supporting me and have a beer!
What would you say to someone thinking of doing a challenge event for Anthony Nolan?
Doing a challenge makes you do the training, even when you don't feel like it or the weather is bad. Anthony Nolan does amazing work and is a cause dear to my heart.
Supporters can sponsor Gina at www.justgiving.com/Gina-Pennington.
You can apply now to secure your place in the 2014 Virgin London Marathon by simply filling out this application form. We’ll start allocating our places on Friday 26 April 2013, so make sure you get your application in soon.
If you have any questions about the Virgin London Marathon, or about any of the other challenge events we have on offer, drop us a line on 0303 303 3000 or email events@anthonynolan.org and we will be happy to help.