Philippa Phillips
Getting back to running
Fundraising for Headway Hertfordshire
Story
Many of you know me as a runner and I guess I have been doing it for over for 20 years! I ran my first ever 10k with my Dad in London in 2000 and it has been part of my life ever since. That all changed last year. After being plagued with niggles and injuries for 18 months I was diagnosed with early onset arthritis in my hip and my consultant suggested it would be best if I stopped running! I considered that for a nano second and said no, I can’t not run. So, with the guidance of a great sports therapist, I started strength training regularly, alongside physio and swimming and as a result have been able to very very slowly build up my running. I can’t run as many miles as I used to, I can’t run as often as I used to, I can’t run as fast as I used to, but I can run.
In February this year I was approached by Headway (after a chance meeting at the Verulamium running track the summer before) and asked if I’d run a half marathon in support of their charity. I really didn’t know then if I’d be able to run that sort of distance, but it gave me a goal and that is something that I’ve always enjoyed about my running.
And why run for Hertfordshire Headway? Well many of you will also know that Steve sustained a head injury in 2018 which has resulted in life long impacts as a result of a brain injury. (One of which seems to be an addiction to Ironman!!) On a more serious note, as a result of his injury we became aware of the charity Headway and the essential support they provide to help improve life after a brain injury for adults who have been personally affected and the loved ones who care for them.
I know that many people have to face and overcome huge personal challenges and keeping running pales into insignificance. However, I would be very grateful if you can support me to achieve this personal goal and in doing so help Headway achieve so much more.
Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.