London Ambulance Service Runners Gear Up for TCS London Marathon! A team of ten determined runners, including a brave mother who survived a traumatic home birth, will lace up next April to represent the London Ambulance Service (LAS) in the iconic TCS London Marathon. Their mission? To raise vital cash for the London Ambulance Charity, funding life-saving projects like city-wide defibrillator installations and essential wellbeing support for frontline crews.
A Heroic Run Inspired by Survival
Among the runners is Abie Hepworth, a trainee priest from East London. Just last year, LAS paramedics saved her and her baby Lydia during a complicated emergency birth at home. That life-changing experience sparked an emotional reunion with her rescuers and inspired Abie to join #TeamLAS as a heartfelt thank you for their brave efforts.
“On TV and in the movies, you always hear the baby cry, but I waited and there was nothing. Despite that, I remember feeling completely safe with the crews. I trusted every single one from the moment they arrived and never felt scared,” Abie recalled.
Running Through Community and Celebration
Abie is buzzing to run through her local area where her church throws a lively Marathon Day celebration full of barbecues and drinks. This year, her friends, family, and community will cheer her on every step of the 26.2-mile challenge.
“It’ll be amazing to be one of the runners everyone is rooting for this time,” she said.
Funding Life-Saving Causes
Funds raised by the team will back crucial initiatives including:
- The London Heart Starters campaign to pump more defibrillators across the capital.
- Wellbeing projects providing support vehicles and resources to help ambulance crews endure tough 12-hour shifts.
Jess Burgess, Head of Charity at London Ambulance Service, thanked the runners:
“I want to thank all our incredible marathon runners. The money raised will boost staff welfare and enable our teams to deliver exceptional care across London.”
How You Can Help
The London Marathon is the world’s biggest fundraising event, expecting around 40,000 runners racing past landmarks like Buckingham Palace, Tower Bridge, and the Cutty Sark.
Each #TeamLAS runner has a JustGiving page ready to receive donations. The public is urged to back these heroes pounding the streets for a vital cause.
Fancy joining the cause or want to learn more? Head to the London Ambulance Charity website now.
