A huge thank you to one of our amazing Great North Runners Sam, who’s turning a life-changing journey into a powerful way to give back to our hospice and community.

“Over the past year, I’ve lost 16 stone. It’s been one of the hardest and most transformative journeys of my life – physically, mentally, and emotionally. I made that commitment to change my life so that I could be around longer for my wife and two daughters. It’s always been a dream of mine to be able to run.

This year, that dream is becoming a reality. And as I take on this challenge, I’ve chosen to raise money for Teesside Hospice – because the work you do matters, and it matters deeply to people like me who care about this community.

As I’ve pushed through every setback and every mile of training, I’ve often thought about the strength and resilience shown by those facing far greater battles – people dealing with life-limiting illnesses, and the families walking beside them.

When I weighed over 34 stone I struggled every day with simple tasks and relied heavily on those around me to just get through the day. I have been lucky enough to turn my life around however this has given me perspective for those who don’t have that option. The care, compassion, and dignity that Teesside Hospice provides is something truly special, and I want to honour that through my run.

This isn’t just a run for me – it’s a celebration of life, of second chances, and of giving back to a cause that makes a real difference to the people of Teesside.

Thank you for all that you do. I’m proud to run in your name.”

We’re so proud to have you running in our name – thank you for sharing your strength and story with us.