A team of incredible supporters laced up their running shoes to take on this year’s Great North Run on Sunday 7 September, raising an amazing £8,985 for St Luke’s.
Taking on the famous half marathon, which runs from the heart of Newcastle upon Tyne to South Shields, were brothers George Illidge and James Illidge, and Rob and Dan Basu, along with Sophie Middleton, Adam Barratt, Keith Gower, Lou Gower and Steven Williams – each taking part in support of St Luke’s and the families we care for.
Together, the team clocked up over 117 miles on the day, with every step helping us provide vital care and support for people across Sheffield living with terminal illness.
The group were part of the 60,000 taking on the iconic route, crossing the Tyne Bridge before reaching the unforgettable coastal finish - each running for their own reasons and in honour of someone special.
Speaking after the event, James, who laced up along with brother George in memory of their Dad, Steve, said: “We are all so happy with how the run went and the amount of money we have managed to raise.”
Brother George added: “Dad was our superhero and losing him has left a space in our lives that can never be filled. During the most difficult times in our lives, St Luke’s were there for us,”
“The care, compassion and dignity they provided went far beyond what we could have ever expected. They made sure Dad was comfortable, respected and surrounded by love. We will be forever grateful to them.”
Rob and Dan Basu, raising money in memory of their Mum added: “It was a great event, and we’re glad we could help raise money. Running it on behalf of St Luke's meant a lot to all of us.”
Sophie Middleton was striding in honour of her beloved Dad, John, who spent his final days at St Luke’s in 2024.
“My brother and I will forever be grateful for the wonderful memories and care St Luke’s gave us during Dad’s final weeks. The care they gave was out of this world and superseded all expectations.” Said Sophie.
Steven Williams was also fundraising for his Dad, who has been supported both by the St Luke’s Community and In Patient Centre teams, following a terminal cancer diagnosis earlier this year.
Steven added: “The relief that was felt by myself, my Dad and the wider family when Dad was admitted was overwhelming.”
“We are so grateful to all of our amazing runners who took on the Great North Run for St Luke’s this year,” said our Community and Events Fundraising Manager Katie Fielding.
“The time, effort and dedication it takes to train for something like this is incredible and they have all achieved something amazing!”
“Thanks to our Great North Run heroes, we can continue providing specialist palliative care to more than 1,800 patients and their families every year – both at our hospice and out in the Sheffield community.”
Feeling inspired? Find out how you can support St Luke’s events by
clicking here.