Fundraiser in the spotlight: Meet Laura

The London Marathon is under a week away and this year, 27-year-old Laura Finch is taking on the epic challenge to raise funds for Sussex Community NHS Charity.

Chartered Accountant Laura loves walking, cafés and exploring the county with her sister and black Labrador, Max. This passion led the sisters to set up Discover Sussex, a website and Instagram account dedicated to all things Sussex!

With an incredible £436 in donations already raised, we chat to Laura to find out why she is taking on the world-famous event on 2 October 2022.

Why have you decided to take part in a challenge event to raise funds for our charity?

“The Covid-19 pandemic really highlighted the tremendous work that charities do across the country, but unfortunately it was also a time when a lot of charities struggled. When Parkrun resumed after restrictions were lifted, I found a love for running again and decided I wanted to take part in a challenge and to try and raise funds for a local charity at the same time.

“I had come across the fantastic work of the Sussex Community NHS Foundation Trust through Discover Sussex, so decided I would like to give back to a charity that does so much for the Sussex community.” 

What training are you doing to get ready?

“This will be my first marathon, having done a few half marathons previously (including Brighton Half Marathon in Feb 2022), so it is a big step up in mileage!

“I am currently following the 16-week training plan which involves running 4 or 5 times each week. I have recently completed my 18-mile-long run, so I have the 20-mile-long run this weekend before the mileage starts to taper and more rest days creep in.”

What are you most looking forward to on the day?

“I am most looking forward to the race day atmosphere and seeing my friends and family who have come to support. There is always such a buzz at running events, with some wanting to smash personal bests and others just wanting to finish their first marathon (me!), so I look forward to the positive atmosphere and sense of comradeship.

“I also thought I would look forward to all the food I can eat afterwards but I’ve been told I won’t be feeling that hungry post 26.2 miles so I will have to save these calories for later in the week!”

Good luck to Laura and all the runners taking part, we’ll be cheering you on from afar. We hope you enjoy a celebration feast Laura – you’ll certainly have earned it!

To learn more about the work of Sussex Community NHS Charity, and how you can show your support, visit www.sussexcommunity.nhs.uk/charity