Thousands of runners are expected to take part in the Great Eastern Run half marathon in Peterborough on October 11, raising funds for the healthcare and bereavement charity Sue Ryder. The event will see participants navigate the city's historic streets, with proceeds directly supporting hospice teams and community nurses who provide end-of-life care.
Widow Runs in Memory of Husband
Jane McLean took part in last year's event to honour the memory of her husband, Craig, who received specialist hospice care from Sue Ryder. She signed up shortly after he passed away to give something back to the charity. Craig spent four months in hospital before moving to the hospice environment during the final days of his life.
Jane McLean said: “Craig spent four months in and out of hospital and received excellent care, but when we were sadly told that his condition was terminal, we decided to move to Sue Ryder. The hospice felt calm, tranquil and welcoming, it was quite different to being in the hospital where you had the sound of machines beeping and lots of people in and out.”
Jane McLean continued: “The Sue Ryder Nurses’ specialist end-of-life care and pain management made a huge difference to Craig. He also had direct access to fresh air and views of the beautifully maintained gardens which were particularly meaningful to Craig, who loved being outdoors. It helped make a difficult time more manageable.”
Personal Challenge and Fundraising
Jane McLean added: “I have always viewed completing a half marathon as a personal bucket-list ambition. I saw information about the Great Eastern Run while I was at the hospice with Craig and shortly after he died, I signed up. I felt that I wanted to be able to give something back.”
Jane McLean continued: “I had always kept up a general level of fitness and maintained a regular routine of running 5km five times a week, as well as swimming and taking part in fitness classes, but I never considered myself as a serious runner.”
Jane McLean added: “I received regular encouragement and advice from the Great Eastern Run community which really helped, and along with determination and commitment, I knew I would finish.”
Race Day Experience
Jane McLean commented: “I found it surprisingly more manageable than I expected. I was never motivated by pace, timing or running statistics, but by the personal challenge and supporting Sue Ryder.”
Jane McLean continued: “The atmosphere was phenomenal, with crowds cheering runners on throughout the course. Travelling through the city brought back fond memories of when I first met Craig. I passed the flat that I rented when I moved to the city. This definitely helped me through the course.”
Jane McLean added: “Crossing the finish line was special because I had honoured my husband's legacy, supported Sue Ryder, and proved I could achieve something I never thought possible.”
Further Challenges Ahead
Jane McLean continued: “It’s made me more fearless and confident. I have since taken on further challenges including a motorbike trip to the Himalayas. I am also hoping to walk the Great Wall China in 2028 for Sue Ryder.”
Jane McLean concluded: “I would encourage everyone to sign up for the Great Eastern Run because of the supportive atmosphere, and with Peterborough being so flat there’s very few challenging inclines making it suitable for all. You will finish with such a great sense of personal accomplishment.”
The half-marathon in Peterborough takes place on October 11. To sign up for the event or to find out more about end-of-life support, visit www.sueryder.org.
