A group of ten runners, including a mother who survived a traumatic birth, will represent the London Ambulance Service (LAS) in the TCS London Marathon next April. Their efforts aim to raise funds for the London Ambulance Charity, which supports lifesaving initiatives like providing defibrillators across the capital and improving the wellbeing of frontline crews.
A Life-Changing Experience
Among the runners is Abie Hepworth, a trainee priest from East London, who credits LAS paramedics with saving her and her baby Lydia’s lives after a complicated emergency home birth last year. The emotional reunion with the paramedics who attended to her was a pivotal moment, and Abie decided to join #TeamLAS in gratitude for their heroic efforts.
Recalling her ordeal, Abie shared:
“On TV and in the movies you always hear the baby cry and I waited but there was no cry. And yet all I remember is how safe I felt with the crews. I trusted each and every one of them from the minute they arrived and I never once felt scared.”
Running for a Cause
Abie is particularly excited to run through her local area, where her church hosts a lively Marathon Day celebration with barbecues and drinks. This year, her friends, family, and community will cheer her on as she takes on the 26.2-mile challenge.
“It will be great to be one of the runners they are cheering on this year,” she said.
A Larger Mission
Funds raised by the runners will go towards initiatives such as:
- The London Heart Starters campaign aims to install more defibrillators across the city.
- Wellbeing projects for ambulance crews, including support vehicles to help staff cope during gruelling 12-hour shifts.
Jess Burgess, Head of Charity at London Ambulance Service, said:
“I would like to thank all of our incredible Marathon runners for taking on this challenge. Money raised will improve staff welfare and help our teams provide exceptional care for our patients and local communities across the capital.”
Join the Effort
The London Marathon, the world’s largest fundraising event, is expected to host 40,000 runners, passing iconic landmarks such as Buckingham Palace, Tower Bridge, and the Cutty Sark.
Each #TeamLAS runner has a JustGiving page for donations, and the public is encouraged to support their efforts.
To learn more or register for your own fundraising challenge, visit the London Ambulance Charity website at www.londonambulancecharity.org.uk.
