The charity is the chosen charity for the Oxford Half Marathon.

Among the runners is Ellen Jardine, 24, from Oxford. She’s a Community Fundraiser and has worked for the charity for almost two years. She has been running for three years. Ellen said; ‘I like to set myself little challenges every so often and since this one is on the door step it makes sense! Working at Helen & Douglas House and seeing what goes on everyday has made me very passionate about the charity. I see how guests are cared for and how their families are supported during difficult times and I wonder what would happen if it didn’t exist.’

Florian Stoermer, 33, from Wantage volunteers on the Care Team in Douglas House. He is been running for a long time and plans to take part in the Half Marathon dressed as Darth Maul. Florian said; ‘I had to start training in the gear and it is hard as you do not see much and sweat a lot. But it is going well and people beep their horn, or cheer me on when I’m running past them.’ 

Asked why he wanted to take part in this particular event Florian said; ‘It’s Oxford’s first Half Marathon, so I want to be part of that; plus I saw it as an opportunity to raise money for Helen & Douglas House. I think the job everyone is doing there is just amazing. My time and own financial abilities are limited so I thought this way I can help a little bit to maintain and promote this special place.’

Sue Anthony, 46, from Headington, has volunteered in the offices at Helen & Douglas House for a year. Sue has been running since her 30’s but ran her first Half Marathon in Reading this year. She said; ‘The Oxford Half is a great opportunity, without having too far to travel! I am running for Helen & Douglas House because I believe the work they do is extremely valuable and this seems a good opportunity to raise local awareness and the profile of the charity.’   

Ellen, Florian and Sue will be joined by several other members of staff and volunteers running in aid of Helen & Douglas House.

Fiona Evans, Activity Events Fundraiser at Helen & Douglas House said; ‘It is really great that people are showing their support and commitment to a local event and to the charity they work or volunteer for. We hope that lots of people in the local community will join them and sign up to run and raise vital funds for Helen & Douglas House in this first Oxford Half Marathon.’

Anyone wishing to run for Helen & Douglas House can contact Poppy Hanbury on T: 01865 799150 or E: phanbury@helenanddouglas,org.uk for more information.