Two Harrogate sisters are preparing to run the Leeds Half Marathon this weekend in memory of their father.
Sally Cocker, 56, and Jenny Lawson, 52, will take part in the event on Sunday (10th May), with a goal of raising £1,000 for Saint Michael’s Hospice.
The charity provides care and support for people affected by terminal illness across the Harrogate district, and cared for their dad, Tim Wilkinson, before his passing.
Sally said:
“Six years ago, at the age of 50, I ran my first (and only) half marathon.
“I’d never have done it without my kid sister Jenny who ran it with me. Afterwards I swore blind I’d never do it again.
“But somehow, here we are, my sister and I, six years older and about to attempt a second one.”
The Leeds Half Marathon takes place alongside the Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon, starting and finishing at Headingley Stadium.
The route heads north past Golden Acre Park to Bramhope before returning to Headingley.
Speaking about their motivation ahead of the race, Sally said:
“We’re running in memory of our fabulous dad, who spent his last days being wonderfully cared for at Saint Michael’s.
“Saint Michael’s is the local hospice care charity ensuring people affected by terminal illness across the Harrogate district can access high quality, personalised care.
“Thanks to Saint Michael’s, the end of our beloved dad’s life was made as comfortable and pleasant as it could possibly have been. We’re so incredibly grateful.
“If giving something back to Saint Michael’s means we have to dust off our running shoes and haul ourselves around Leeds, sweating, puffing and panting for 13 miles, then we’re only too happy to do it.
“Just don’t ask what time we’re aiming for. The answer would be: before they reopen the roads, and if we can get round in one piece, all the better.”
Saint Michael’s Hospice, based at Hornbeam Park, supports patients in their own homes, in the community and at its hospice, as well as offering bereavement support.
It must raise almost £6 million each year to continue providing its services, with the majority of funding coming from public donations.
Support Sally and Jenny’s fundraising campaign here.
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