Hammersmith Author Philippa to Run Marathon for Diabetes UK

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Local mum is writer of prize-winning book called The Marathon

Philippa Cates, an author and mum from Hammersmith is taking on the Virgin Money London Marathon this Sunday, 28 April, to raise money for Diabetes UK.

Philippa is taking on the gruelling 26.2 mile challenge because she has worked in diabetes for many years and has seen how the charity strives to improve the lives of people with the condition.

Her work has also led to her writing a prize-winning book about the challenge, called simply The Marathon.

Philippa, 45 says: "I first ran the London Marathon in 2017. During my marathon journey, I got to know other runners and discovered that many of them have diabetes. Although challenging to train for and run a marathon, the challenges I faced were nothing in comparison to my team mates with diabetes. It was truly humbling."

Philippa, who works in medical communications, has written a book about tackling 26.2 miles. Aptly called The Marathon, the book follows our hero, Runner, as he takes on the arduous business of training for and running a marathon. Not a natural athlete, and with a weakness for cake and socialising, Runner faces many distractions along the way.

The book has already proved a great hit within the running community and was the London Marathon Events World Book Day competition prize last month.

Andrea Banganz-Pritchard, Diabetes UK Fundraising Manager, said: "Our much-needed work wouldn’t be possible without the determination and generosity of our incredible fundraisers.

"We are extremely grateful to Philippa for her hard work - running a marathon is no mean feat! The money raised will help fund ground-breaking research, care services and campaigns that can change the lives of those living with diabetes."

Diabetes is a condition where there is too much glucose in the blood because the body cannot use it properly. There are an estimated 4.7 million people living with diabetes in the UK.

If not managed well, both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes can lead to devastating complications, including sight loss, amputation, kidney failure and stroke. With the right treatment, knowledge and support people living with diabetes can lead a long, full and healthy life.

Philippa hopes to bring her total raised for the charity to over £3,500. You can still help by sponsoring her at her JustGiving page.

The Marathon is available to buy via Philippa's online store with a proportion of sales going to Diabetes UK if you select the charity name at check out.

 

April 26, 2019