Firstly, we’d like to introduce you to Ian Ruffles, Recruitment Consultant in the Primary Care sector here at Evergood. Earlier this year, Ian took on arguably a once-in-a-lifetime challenge: running the London Marathon. PASSION FOR RUNNING | OUTSTANDING CHARITY “I remember watching the London Marathon on the television as a child and I always wanted to run it myself one day. As a child, I was a keen short-distance runner and was a member of The Enfield Harriers running club. This has been on my bucket list from an early age, however, I wish I’d have done it in my early 20’s, rather than late 30’s! My chosen charity was Keech Hospice, as throughout my son Lennon’s short life, they provided a huge support to both Lennon and his complex medical needs and our family. They have also given a home to Lennon for three weeks towards the end of 2016 while our house was extended and adapted to meet his ever-growing needs. Little did I know, Keech would later on this year – just a few months after running the Marathon for them – provide me and my family with vital bereavement care after Lennon’s sudden death in August.” TRAINING BEGINS “I started training with an 8.5 mile run and remember thinking it was going to be a big ask to run 26 miles! However, I followed a training programme and even with a few injury niggles, I managed to get up and running 15-plus miles on a regular basis – I even semi enjoyed it.” RUNNING IN THE LONDON MARATHON “Marathon day seemed to come around fairly fast. Standing at the start line was quite an experience and I was excited at the prospect of the huge challenge ahead. I ran the first 13 miles well and felt good. But mentally I hit trouble. When you have been running for over two hours and realise you have a further two hours to go, it plays with your mind. But not wanting to let down all the people who had sponsored me, I battled on through miles 15 to 22. It was certainly one of the greatest challenges I have ever experienced. The crowd was immense throughout, but I especially thank those who screamed and shouted for the last four miles – it carried me round and over the finishing line.” FUNDRAISING SUCCESS “I finished in a time of four hours and 34 minutes, a little slower than I had hoped. However, I was proud to finish, and with £3,800 raised (roughly £146 a mile) it made running every mile worth it. I’m proud to say I have done it, even if I said at the time that I’d never do it again!” For more information about our team, Click Here To show your support for the Keech Hospice, please follow this link: https://www.keech.org.uk/
Friday Dec 8, 2017
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