Runner Charlotte Palmer recently completed the London Marathon in memory of her father, John Wood, raising more than £1,000 for Longfield Community Hospice in Minchinhampton.
Completing the 26.2-mile course in 4 hours and 46 minutes, Charlotte plans to continue fundraising by running the Stroud Half Marathon this Sunday.
John died from lung cancer after developing pneumonia in February last year. He was cared for at home during his final days by the Longfield Hospice Team.
Once an active sportsman, John had always planned on running the London Marathon with his daughter. Shortly after his death, Charlotte heard she had gained a place through the ballot and decided to run the race in his honour.
Charlotte explained: “Running London was something I needed to do. It was my tribute to him. I got to say goodbye to my dad my way.”
In a heart-warming twist, Charlotte took some of her father’s ashes and scattered them from Tower Bridge during the race, close to where he had once worked for the City of London Police.
“It was a beautiful, emotion-filled day. It gave me a chance to give Longfield something back – I don’t think anything can repay them for the kindness they showed my dad,” said Charlotte.
All sponsorship money raised will go towards the hospice’s vital work supporting patients, families and carers across Gloucestershire.
To make a donation online, go to: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Charleyjorunsfordad
