Pharmacist to run length of British Isles in aid of Parkinson’s disease

Faith Addison

A pharmacist is planning to run 1,500 miles from Shetland in Scotland to Penzance in Cornwall in aid of Parkinson’s UK and Longfield Hospice in Gloucestershire.

Setting out on 26 August 2018 from her home in Shetland, Faith Addison will undertake her ‘Great British Run’ solo and unsupported, and with her camping gear, clothes, water filter and food on her back.

“I’m planning for the epic challenge to take me six weeks — well that’s the plan. If my maths are up to scratch it works out to a lengthy 36 miles a day over six weeks to complete the 1,500 miles,” said Addison.

According to Addison, who has already spent two-and-a-half years cycling around the world using money she had saved for a house deposit, her motivation comes from her godfather who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease a few years ago.

“The reason I am doing the challenge is simple. My godfather has Parkinson’s disease — a rather aggressive form — and he has deteriorated rapidly.

“I’ve had the idea of running the length of the British Isles in my mind for a few years. I decided to do this challenge when I last met him a couple of months ago — I asked what he would like me to raise money for and he said his wonderful local hospice [Longfield] that have looked after him and Parkinson’s UK.”

Addison said that she once ran a 50-mile ultramarathon but, despite this, does not consider herself a runner.

“Truth be told, I am very nervous about the challenge. I am a very ordinary pharmacist and not a runner — hopefully by the time I make it to Cornwall I will be happy to say I’m a runner too!”

To sponsor Addison, who is aiming to raise £3,000, visit her Virgin Money Giving page

Last updated
Citation
The Pharmaceutical Journal, Pharmacist to run length of British Isles in aid of Parkinson's disease;Online:DOI:10.1211/PJ.2018.20205344

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