Philippa takes on her first Marathon for PKD

On 8th April Philippa Harpham is running her first ever marathon and it’s all for the PKD Charity.

Here, Philippa tells us what prompted her to take on 26.2 miles:

“I am fundraising for this Charity as unfortunately this inherited disease affects more than one member of my Family .

Both my Dad and Aunty suffer but have been some of the lucky ones to receive kidney transplants. My Dad was fortunate to have both myself and my sister as possible donors receiving a kidney from my sister 12 years ago. My Aunty had been on the donor list for some time but was successfully matched 7.5 years ago.

Although this disease has not been passed on to my sister and I, my cousins  haven't  been so fortunate and have been diagnosed, with some of their own children affected as well.  

So for those of you that know me well obstacle course racing, or as many refer to them crazy races are usually my thing, so running a marathon is going to be a little different..... I have asked myself why many a time, but it basically boils down to the fact I have been entering the infamous London Marathon Ballot for 6 years now and still been unsuccessful. However having supported 2 friends on their own marathon challenges last year I decided it was now or never.

As race day looms I’m sure that all the support and donations I’ve received will provide that extra push when my legs want to give up!"

Inspired by Philippa's story? We do have places in other great runs this year. Find out more here.