TWO friends have joined forces to run the London Marathon, raising money for Phabkids, a charity that supports children and adults with disabilities.
Marathon veteran Carli Caven has recruited friend, Gemma Hughes, to take part in the London Marathon this year. Carli has ran several marathons before, with Gemma running half-marathons, wanting to increase to the full distance.
The two mums are aiming to raise £3,500 for Phabkids. Through this charity the children get to experience a range of activities that wouldn’t normally be available to them.
Carli’s son has several disabilities, so she knows only too well the importance of charities that provide such activities for the children and their families.
Gemma said, “Carli and I started running together about 18 months ago, and she has helped me to run further distances. With a lot of encouragement from Carli, the next step seemed to be running a marathon!
“London is such an iconic race and it is one of those bucket list things to do. It’s a daunting thought having to run 26.2 miles, but I am up for the challenge.”
To raise money for the charity Carli and Gemma have been hosting fundraising events, with more planned leading up to the big day.
A successful biscuit sale was held at Paxcroft Primary School, The Water Meadow pub had a ‘How many Halloween sweets in the jar’ competition and Angelfish swimming club had a ‘Name the reindeer’ competition. Carli and Gemma also made Christmas pom poms and wreaths to sell, and held a chocolate and wine bingo at Bowerhill Village Hall. They are currently running a ‘guess the rose petals in the ball’ competition, at The Water Meadow pub, with the winner to be announced on Monday 11th February, with the chance to win a Valentine’s meal for two.
You can also donate via their fundraising page at: https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/Team/mumsthatrun1. The London Marathon takes place on Sunday 28th April.
Above: Carli (right) and Gemma fundraising by cycling in Leekes in December.