A determined woman from Worcester will be competing in a grueling triathlon to mark her 50th birthday – and raise funds for a hospice that is close to her heart.
Rebecca Widdowson, Managing Partner at Hallmark Hulme Solicitors, will be announced this Sunday, Jan.
The challenge is to swim 2 miles, bike 56 miles, and walk 21 miles in eight and a half hours – all to raise funds for St. Richard’s Hospice.
“I’ve been preparing for this challenge since January and my fitness is good enough to try it properly – even though I had an illness and was unable to exercise for a few weeks,” said Rebecca.
“For my 50th birthday, I decided to take on a challenge that, to be honest, scared me. I’m not good at running, and thinking about running a half marathon in the end is a huge mental barrier.
“My inspiration is the care, compassion, and dignity that the hospice offers to so many end-of-life local families. The last hours of the hospice looked after my late father-in-law and, at the beginning of the year, my girlfriend’s mother.
“It is vital support for people with severe, progressive illnesses and their families. As a family, we were supported in grief counseling. ”
Rebecca in the cycling section of the Challenge will include Mark Dodwell and former Worcester Warriors player Jonny Arr.
The challenge takes place around Droitwich and Worcester, with a swim at the Droitwich Spa Leisure Center.
So far she has raised more than £ 4,800 for St. Richard’s Hospice – and hopes to reach £ 5,000 in total.
Sofia Gunster, fundraiser at St. Richard’s Hospice, said: “We are impressed with Rebecca and the incredible challenge she has given herself.
“Taking on such a tough challenge – especially after an illness and with a fear of running – is really inspiring.
“We are so grateful to Rebecca for raising such a fantastic amount for our care. Without the support of people like you, we would not be able to continue funding our services to patients, families and survivors in Worcestershire.
“Thank you, Rebecca – we’ll be cheering you on this Sunday!”
To support Rebecca’s fundraising visit: https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/Team/HalfIronwomanChallenge