Participating in the debut event on 25 March, 23 fantastic supporters of our charity ran 13.1 miles through Central London via the city’s most famous and impressive landmarks and some of its lesser known ones too

Starting at Pall Mall, the runners passed Nelson’s Column, The Tower of London and St. Paul’s, but also took in the location of the origin of the Bowler Hat and the house where Guy Fawkes and his associates met to plan the fateful gunpowder plot. Our runners gallantly crossed the finish line at Downing Street in Westminster.

They included staff, patients, and their families, and ranged from novices to seasoned runners. Christine Mackenzie (left) feels inspired by her first half marathon: “It was a fantastic experience and knowing my efforts will support the Royal Brompton and Harefield gives me a warm glow. I would definitely do another half – that means more training and less chocolate and crisps!

Claire Linney (right) said: “The day itself was absolutely amazing and truly one of the best things I have ever done.” Claire wanted to give something back after her mother’s life was saved at Harefield Hospital. “I was so proud to wear the purple running vest and thinking about what my mum has overcome in the these last few months helped me get through the gruelling 13.1 mile route! Thank you Royal Brompton & Harefield Hospitals Charity for the wonderful experience.”

Together, they raised a fantastic total of £11,300 in sponsorship, with more donations expected. These funds will go towards supporting the vital work that happens every day at the two hospitals. As well as the ongoing Harefield Transplant Appeal, which is seeking to afford more Organ Care Systems and so called ‘Artificial Hearts’ (Left Ventricle Assist Devices) which prolong the length of time patients can wait for a new heart once they have been admitted to hospital.

On the day our team set up a ‘cheer station’ on the final mile to support our incredible runners as they neared the end of their journey. Seeing them push their limits for such a worthy cause was incredibly inspiring and we are truly proud to have been able to cheer them on, runner Natalia Shuttlewood, who managed to raise an incredible £1,030 in sponsorship, said the cheer station “really made me smile and gave me a huge push when I needed it most!”

All those who took part have truly inspiring stories, such as Rafael Alonso (left) who was told last year that he may never be able to run again. He said: “I am extremely proud of being part of the Royal Brompton & Harefield Trust. It was a fantastic day, with an excellent atmosphere and a great sense of achievement after crossing the finish line.”

Sophie Bagley (right) was running in memory of her Grandfather who was treated at Royal Brompton. She said that for her, crossing the finish line was “both a personal achievement”, adding that it was “heart-warming to know how much was raised for the Royal Brompton”. She said: “Whenever I began to struggle, I simply reminded myself how the hospital never gave up on my Grandad, and how he had the strength to stay with us as long as he did.”  

We’d like to emphasise our heartfelt thanks to all of our runners, and their sponsors, for kindly supporting the cause and helping both the Royal Brompton and Harefield continue their valuable work.