Jamie Hawkswood, 42, joined almost 60,000 runners to compete in the 26.2-mile Marathon de Paris – raising hundreds of pounds for a cause close to his heart.
“My Uncle Bob was cared for by John Taylor teams and I wanted to do something to help them,” said Jamie. “I’ve also been inspired by reading stories on the hospice website and on social media and can see how much they continue to help other families like mine.”
Although this is not the first time that Jamie has run a marathon, it was his first trip to the French capital. Jamie, who travelled to Paris with his wife Gemma, added: “The course started and finished at Arc de Triomphe and passed some famous landmarks with views of the Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, Notre-Dame Cathedral, Place de la Bastille and the Eiffel Tower.
“The cobbled streets on the Champs-Élysées were difficult and I felt like my shins were on fire but knowing what a difference the money would make to the hospice kept me motivated. With local charities like John Taylor Hospice, I think your fundraising can make more of an impact and you know the money will be spent where it is needed.”
As well as running to raise funds, chef Jamie and his colleagues at The Woodman pub in Birmingham city centre have been busy hosting quizzes and raffles to support families in the city who need hospice care and support.
“We have collection cans at the bar and we plan to do more fundraising for the hospice this summer,” said Jamie. “I’m also looking forward to my next marathon challenge and am considering Amsterdam, Portugal, Zurich or Porto – but I’ll let my wife choose!”
Jess Wood, Community Fundraiser at John Taylor Hospice, said: “We are so proud of Jamie and so grateful to him and his colleagues at The Woodman for everything they’ve done, and continue to do, to support us.
“Today more than 600 people and their families will receive the care they need from John Taylor teams at home or in the hospice. Incredible supporters like Jamie and his colleagues help ensure these vital services are available to people when they need them most. A huge thank you from us all.”
If you would like to join #TeamJTH then there are a number of local running events taking place this year. Whatever event you choose, our Fundraising Team will be here to support you every step of the way! To get in touch please call 0121 728 6739 or email fundraising@johntaylorhospice.org.uk