St Giles CEO to connect hospice sites in milestone 16-mile marathon training run

With the iconic event now just weeks away, Elinor will run 16 miles - from St Giles Hospice in Whittington to their Sutton Coldfield site on Lindridge Road and back again. This challenging route not only forms a crucial part of her training schedule but also symbolically connects the hospice's key locations across the region.

Elinor's fundraising efforts have already reached £1,294, representing 49% of her £2,620 target - a figure chosen to represent £100 for every mile of the 26.2-mile challenge she'll face on Sunday, April 27.

"This weekend's run marks a significant milestone in my training journey," said Elinor. 

"Connecting our Whittington and Sutton Coldfield sites through this route really emphasises the geographical spread of our care across the communities we serve."

The challenge holds personal significance for Elinor, whose own connection with hospice care began in 1998 when her grandmother received end-of-life care. This experience, combined with her aunt's later journey, ultimately led her to a career in the hospice sector.

"Every mile I run and every pound raised will help support local families when they need us most," Elinor added. "Whether it's £32 funding an hour of inpatient care, £66 covering a specialist nurse home visit, or £768 providing 24 hours of end-of-life care - the support we've received so far has been incredible."

The fundraising initiative comes at a crucial time for St Giles Hospice, which has served the community for over 40 years. In 2024, the hospice faced significant challenges, including reducing inpatient beds from 23 to 15 due to financial pressures.

To support Elinor's London Marathon challenge, visit  https://www.justgiving.com/page/elinor-london-marathon.