by Eliza Sterling

[A strong, determined woman with a resolved expression on her face laces up her running shoes, ready to take on a marathon challenge. She stands against the backdrop of a serene and peaceful canal, where part of her marathon route lies.]

Courageous Kirsty Makin, a 34-year-old successful entrepreneur from Bury, is all set to run a marathon to honour the memory of her dearly departed husband. A mother to two adorable little girls aged four and one, she plans to face this challenge head-on to raise funds for a noble cause.

Kirsty’s motivation to partake in this exhaustingly exhilarating event originates from her husband’s wish to run a marathon prior to his tragic diagnosis of osteosarcoma, a type of bone cancer. Widowed shortly after the birth of their second child, Kirsty decided to fulfill his dream on his behalf.

This marathon will be Kirsty’s first long-distance running event. Although she is not a regular runner, her regular fitness regime and gym workouts have ingrained in her a persistent endurance. However, the pandemic put a halt to her training along with “Tom’s Team”, a group comprising her husband’s friends.

Their collective endeavours were abruptly stopped by the lockdown. Consequently, a few weeks of stagnation made the struggle even tougher, but Kirsty believes in the power of mental resilience and the willingness to fight the odds.

This marathon, though intended to happen under fanfare and public encouragement, will now take place under much quieter circumstances due to social distancing norms. Kirsty and “Tom’s Team” believe that pushing through without an encouraging crowd will prove more challenging. However, socially distanced cheer squads will follow the runners during their marathon journey to provide much-needed moral support.

The planned running route includes a fair share of challenging hills as well as flat terrain alongside a picturesque canal. The finish line is at Tom’s final resting place, where the runners will lay flowers on their fallen friend’s headstone.

The ‘Tom’s Team’ group comprises Kirsty’s late husband’s friends Ashleigh, Luke, and Ryan, supplemented by her brother-in-law Chris and some other runners joining along the route. Their shared determination fuels their journey towards the finish line while concentrating on maintaining positivity. When fatigue attacks, recalling Tom’s unbreakable spirit and undying love will motivate them to push harder.

Funds raised through this marathon will go to Sarcoma UK- a charity focused on sarcoma research and treatment. “My only goal is to complete this marathon while carrying the hopes of those who donated generously to this cause,” says Kirsty, emphasizing commitment over time goals.

Truly an inspiration, we wish Kirsty and “Tom’s Team” all the best on their incredible journey.

For details on Sarcoma UK and Kirsty’s fundraising efforts, look up Sarcoma UK online and explore the ways you can contribute to this meaningful cause.

marathon running, osteosarcoma, Sarcoma UK, Tom’s Team, lockdown marathon, women empowerment, motherhood challenges, fundraising events