St Giles Hospice CEO takes on London Marathon challenge, invites local businesses to join journey
The CEO of St Giles Hospice is lacing up her running shoes to take on the iconic London Marathon this spring, inspired by her own family's experience of hospice care.
Elinor Eustace will join thousands of runners on Sunday, 27 April, taking on the 26.2-mile challenge to raise vital funds for the hospice.
With a fundraising target of £2,620 - representing £100 for every mile - Elinor hopes her marathon effort will help support essential patient care across the region.
Elinor said: "This challenge feels especially meaningful given the significant pressures facing hospice care. Every penny raised will help ensure local families can continue accessing our specialist care when they need it most."
The challenge holds personal significance for Elinor, whose own connection with hospice care began in 1998 when her grandmother received end of life care. This experience, combined with her aunt's later journey, ultimately led her to a career in the hospice sector.
As part of her training schedule, Elinor plans to incorporate runs between St Giles' Whittington and Sutton Coldfield sites, highlighting the geographical reach of the hospice's care across the region.
St Giles is also inviting local businesses to be part of this marathon journey through corporate sponsorship opportunities of Elinor's running vest, offering a unique way to support the hospice while gaining visibility at one of the world's most prestigious sporting events.
"Every donation makes a real difference to the care we can provide," Elinor added. "Whether it's £32 funding an hour of inpatient care, £66 covering a specialist nurse home, or £768 could help provide 24 hours of care for someone at the end of their life - every mile I run will help support local families when they need us most."
The fundraising initiative comes at a crucial time for St Giles Hospice, which has served the community for over 40 years. In 2024, the hospice faced significant challenges, including reducing inpatient beds from 23 to 15 due to financial pressures.
To support Elinor's London Marathon challenge, visit justgiving.com/page/elinor-london-marathon.
Businesses interested in sponsorship opportunities can contact the team on communications@stgileshospice.com
