Director of Operations for Medicine, Helen Rees, will be pulling on her running shoes next year after being surprised with a coveted place in the 2027 Double TCS London Marathon at the end of a recent Charitable Funds Committee meeting.

Helen, who has been entering the London Marathon ballot for years without success, was delighted to learn she will be representing CHFT Charity in one of the world's most iconic running events.

Speaking after receiving the surprise news, Helen said: "I was completely shocked and absolutely delighted. Running the London Marathon has always been a dream of mine. I've been running for several years and completed a number of half marathons, but despite entering the ballot around seven times, I've always received the rejection email. To finally get a place is fantastic, and the fact that I'll be running for CHFT Charity makes it even more special.

"I've got plenty to do now, from getting my training plan in place and building up my mileage to planning my fundraising activities, but I'm really excited to get started. I'll be sharing my training journey along the way and, when things get tough, I'll be thinking about the charity and the people who will benefit from the money we raise. Knowing I'm making a difference will be a huge motivation to keep going all the way to the finish line."

Over the coming months, colleagues and supporters will be able to follow Helen's marathon journey and get involved in helping her reach her fundraising target for CHFT Charity.

We wish Helen the very best of luck with her training and fundraising as she prepares to take on the 26.2-mile challenge. 

You can donate to support Helen and the Charity via her fundraising page.