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Derek Hope has set himself one heck of challenge - to run a half marathon every month this year to raise funds for our hospice.

In memory of a close friend who we cared for recently, Derek wants to raise money to say thank you for everything we did for him and his family.

He says: “I’ve had a difficult time in the past and was fortunate that people reached out and helped me, so now I want to give back. It means a lot to me to be able to do this for an amazing hospice that does so much to support patients and their families.”

“I’ve completed half marathons in the past to fundraise for various causes, so wanted to set myself a bigger challenge over a longer period of time, and when I lost my friend, I knew any money I raise has to go to Meadow House.”

So far this year Derek has completed half marathons at:

• Finsbury Park in January
• Winter Warmer in Milton Keynes in February
• Save the Rhino in Staines in March
• Richmond Park in April

“I’ve gradually been getting faster and completed my March run in under two hours, which I was delighted with. Richmond Park was challenging – a hot day and a hilly course, but there was an amazing atmosphere and a really friendly bunch of runners. I got around in 02:17:38.

“I’ve already booked Dorney half marathon in May and will book my places for the next few months soon but am really looking forward to the Ealing Half Marathon in September and the Royal Parks in October.”

You can sponsor Derek at https://sportsgiving.co.uk/sponsorship/entry/1441650

Why not join Derek in the Ealing Half Marathon and help raise money for our hospice? It takes place on 28 September but if that sounds a little too daunting, why not sign up for the Ealing Feeling 5K instead?

Sign up for your free place and pledge to raise £150 (or £50 if you choose to run the 5K) at https://meadowhousehospice.org.uk/2022/09/get-involved-events-ealing-half-marathon/