“Epsom and St Helier are our local hospitals and we’ve always had really positive experiences. We feel very lucky to have them.”
Ruth New, a 44-year-old primary school teacher and mother of three, is gearing up to run her very first marathon- and she is doing it for a cause close to her heart.
On Sunday, Ruth will be lining up at the start of the TCS London Marathon to raise funds for Epsom and St Helier Hospitals Charity, in particular the stroke unit at Epsom Hospital, in recognition of the care her father has received over the last decade.
“I’ve watched friends and family run the London Marathon before, and it’s always such an emotional day. My husband and I, along with a few friends, enter the ballot every year- more in hope than expectation. I’m not a runner and always thought no one really gets in on the ballot. But this time, I was wrong!”
Ruth’s motivation is deeply personal. Her father has been under the care of Epsom Hospital for several years, and most recently was supported by the Stroke Unit following a stroke just before Christmas. More recently, he was treated by the High Dependency Unit over Easter for sepsis.
“The staff at Epsom have been absolutely incredible. The stoke team at the hospital and the home visit teams have played such a big part in his recovery. We’re incredibly grateful, and my dad was clear that any money raised should go to the stroke unit, as a way to say thank you.”
With Sunday approaching, Ruth admits to feeling nervous but is thankful for the support she’s received from friends and family- including her brother, who is running alongside her.
“The training has been a real challenge, but I’ve been lucky to have so much advice and encouragement along the way. It’s definitely been a team effort.”
Ruth also reflects on the important role the hospitals have played in her family’s life over the years- from the birth of their children to treatment for minor injuries.
“Epsom and St Helier are our local hospitals and we’ve always had really positive experiences. We feel very lucky to have them.”
All money raised through Ruth’s fundraising will go back into the hospital, supporting staff and patients just like her dad. To support Ruth’s marathon effort and donate to Epsom and St Helier Hospitals Charity visit https://www.justgiving.com/page/ruth-new-1