Sandra inspired to join runners

Friday 13th April 2012

Fundraiser Sandra Hill was so inspired by watching a half marathon she decided to take up running.

Last year, 44-year-old Sandra cheered on runners in the Sheffield Half Marathon as part of Weston Park Hospital Cancer Charity's cheer squad.

Twelve months on, and Sandra is ready to take on the 13-mile race herself in aid of the same charity.Her run is also a tribute to her dad Dennis Southern.

He was treated at the Sheffield hospital for stomach cancer before he died in 1998, aged 66, after a two-year battle with the disease.

Sandra, from Walkley, said: "When I was at the half marathon watching people older than me take part and raise money I just thought 'if they can do it, I can do it', and so now I am.

"This is the first bit of fundraising I have done for the charity, and I am so pleased to support such a great cause and help the hospital which gave my dad such excellent care."

Sandra is now one of the first people to join the charity's Run And Raise initiative, which encourages runners of all abilities to sign up to an organised run, or to arrange their own sponsored event. Runners are offered support through the charity's website with training tips and advice.

Sandra said: "It's never too late to start anything, be it running or raising money for a great cause. I'd encourage anyone who wants to run to join the Run And Raise club. It offers advice and support whether you're a beginner or a more experienced runner."

Helen Gentle, fundraiser at Weston Park Hospital Cancer Charity, said: "We are so happy that Sandra has been inspired to join the Sheffield Half Marathon this year and support the cancer charity. It is great to see individuals and families that the hospital has supported so keen to raise money to help us continue our work, and we wish her, and all the runners taking part, the best of luck."

To join the Run And Raise club visit http://www.runandraise.org.uk and to sponsor Sandra visit http://www.justgiving.com/Sandra-Hill0.

---