Leeds man Will Pallister took on the London Marathon on 2 October after being inspired by his mum’s work at the Sue Ryder Wheatfields Hospice.
The 26.2-mile distance was the challenge Will was determined to meet, so as to raise vital funds for Hospice in Headingley, where his mum, Julie, has worked for 16 years. Julie is a community palliative care specialist nurse and manages the hospice’s community team, who provide expert care, support and advice to people living with life-limiting conditions in their own homes across Leeds.
Will: “I really wanted to run the London Marathon for mum because I know how hard she and her colleagues work to support people going through the most difficult times of their lives. My mum is very good at her job and I know that a lot of other people, including myself, wouldn’t be able to do what she does every day.
We’ve had a few close family friends who have been affected by cancer and passed away at Sue Ryder Wheatfields Hospice, which has also given me a greater understanding of the vital importance of good end-of-life care. I have been to the hospice a few times over the years and it’s an incredibly inspiring place.”
This was the first time Will had run a marathon, but he managed to fit in his training around his work as a greenkeeper at a golf club and playing cricket on the weekends.
Will: “I had done a few half marathons before but nothing like this, so it was a big challenge.” For Will, the training went better than he thought it would, so he was optimistic going into the race.
Will’s mum was there on the day to cheer him on, along with his dad, sister, girlfriend and other members of his family.
Will: “I’d always wanted to do the London Marathon, but doing it to support a cause that’s so personal to my family felt really special. This was for all the staff at Sue Ryder Wheatfields Hospice to say a massive thank you for everything they do. Nothing is ever too much for this team of superstars, therefore I felt as though I should push myself to my limit and raise money for such a worthy cause.
The whole journey was unforgettable, including the bad and emotional times. I’m proud to say that all training was worth it, and allowed me to really enjoy myself. I can say I thoroughly enjoyed the whole experience. Where to start…..the crowds and atmosphere were incredible, and they kept me motivated throughout the whole day.”
Michelle Darbyshire, Community Fundraiser at Sue Ryder Wheatfields Hospice, said: “We’re so grateful to Will for taking on this iconic challenge to support our hospice. Our Sue Ryder Nurses, like Will’s mum Julie, have always been there for patients and families at the most difficult time of their lives. With the help from our generous supporters who fundraise for us, our teams can continue to go above and beyond, filling last days with love and helping to give families a better goodbye.”
To donate to Will’s fundraising page, visit: justgiving.com/fundraising/william-pallister1
If Will’s story has inspired you to lace up your trainers and run the London Marathon for Sue Ryder in 2023, visit: sueryder.org/londonmarathon.
Image: Will Pallister, and with his mum, Julie.
