Running for Change: Anna’s London Marathon Journey for Leonard Cheshire
“Leonard Cheshire supports situations that could happen to any of us if our lives were suddenly turned upside down,”. “I wanted to do something meaningful.”
When Anna signed up for the London Marathon, it wasn’t just for the challenge or the medal — it was for something bigger. Inspired by the work of Leonard Cheshire, Anna took to the streets of London with a mission: to raise money and awareness for a cause close to her heart.
Training with Purpose
Anna’s marathon journey didn’t begin with a love of long-distance running. In fact, it was only a year ago that she completed her first ever half marathon. But that initial race sparked a passion. Over the next year, she completed seven half marathons as part of her training.
“I made sure I was half-marathon fit by Christmas,” she explains. “From there, I gradually built up my distance each week until I hit 22 miles.”
Though she ran the marathon on her own, Anna wasn’t entirely without support. Her friends Sue and Mandie, who were also running for Leonard Cheshire, joined her for some training events. But on the big day, it was a solo mission — start to finish.
Marathon Magic
When asked about the most memorable moment, Anna doesn’t hesitate.
“The noise on Tower Bridge was electric — and seeing my fiancé and children in the Grandstand on the Mall as I was finishing… absolutely epic!"
But the day wasn’t without its challenges. The unexpected heat made things tougher than expected.
“At first, I was trying to avoid the water showers — I was worried about how I’d look at the finish line!” she laughs. “But after a few miles, I ran through every single one. I didn’t care — I just wanted to stay cool and hydrated so I could finish strong.”
And finish strong she did — crossing the line in 4 hours and 17 minutes, meeting her personal goal and knowing she’d already raised £2,000 for Leonard Cheshire by the time her shoes hit the start line.
A Crowd Like No Other
The London crowd didn’t disappoint either. “There was only one quiet moment in the Isle of Dogs — it was actually a nice pause to hear the pounding of feet and reflect,” Anna says. “But everywhere else? The crowd was absolutely phenomenal.”
Their cheers, energy, and encouragement pushed her through the tough miles — a sea of strangers united in support of runners and their causes.
More Than a Race
This wasn’t Anna’s first connection with Leonard Cheshire. She works in a private school that previously supported the charity as one of its house causes. But this year, the relationship deepened.
One moment that especially touched her heart was when Amie, a member of the fundraising team at Leonard Cheshire, visited her children's school to support Anna’s fundraising. “She completely captured my children’s hearts,” she says. “It meant so much to them — and to me.”
In fact, the experience left such a mark that her son made her promise to run it again with him in 10 years when he turns 19.
“Leonard Cheshire, we’ll be back to support you again then!” Anna promises.
Making a Difference
So far, Anna has raised over £2,100 — and counting. But more than the money, it’s the awareness and impact that matter most to her.
“I know it will make a difference,” she says confidently. Her advice to anyone considering a charity race? “If fundraising is the thing holding you back — just do it. You’ll find ways to raise the money.”
Because at the end of the day, it’s not just about crossing the finish line. It’s about who you’re running for — and what you leave behind long after the medals are handed out.
You can support Anna by donating here: Leonard Cheshire Disability: Anna Mace London Marathon 2025