Anna and the Marathon

Anna applied to run the London marathon and a few days after Dad died, she was accepted. She decided to go for it, and run for Parkinson's.  The dedication it takes to get prepared is something else. Not just the physical preparation but getting mentally ready to decide to take that next stride 38,000 times (the average number of strides taken to complete the 26 miles 285 yard course).  I don't think I could do it. 

Today was the day. We arrived nice and early at mile 9 and watched literally thousands of runners go past. We were there when the elite men flew through and soon the few out front became the many of the middle. Luckily, Anna was able to let us know when she was approaching; it is difficult to spot people as the above picture shows.  This is her at 9 miles, below. She was looking good and her back, which had caused some problems over the last week, was holding up well.

We saw her again at 19 miles. The field had spread out somewhat and some people were really beginning to suffer. Anna still looked in great shape, though unfortunately we caught her whilst she was 'in the zone' (or at least appeared to be by the shock she registered when we shouted her name);

It didn't take any more pix, I was too busy listening to her telling us how she was. She said it was getting a little trickier. Her comment was prophetic. She remembered that someone had told her that 20 miles was half way. I think she would endorse that given what said about miles 20-23!

The main thing was that she completed. It took a shade over 5 hours. She raised over £3,000. 

I have total respect for Anna doing this. With her fantastic speech at Dad's funeral, here, and this run, I have seen a determined and courageous side to her to add to the generous, caring and warm hearted woman I am very proud to call my sister.