Meet Alice, an incredible supporter from Matlock taking on the iconic London Marathon this weekend in support of Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice.

Running 26.2 miles through London is no small feat, and not only has Alice been training hard and taken on a huge amount of runs in preparation (just look at those Strava miles!), she’s raised an incredible amount of money for Bluebell Wood.

We’re blown away by Alice’s dedication, determination and the incredible amount she’s raised. From all of us at Bluebell Wood, thank you, Alice, and good luck on marathon day. We’ll be cheering you on every step of the way!

Every single step Alice takes will help families at Bluebell Wood when they need us most.

We caught up with Alice ahead of race day to hear about her training journey, her motivation for running and her top tips for marathon day.

 

Question: How are you feeling about running the Marathon this weekend?

Answer: I definitely have a case of the “maranoia” but I’m also so excited. What an honour to be running the London marathon. I never thought this would be me, so it’s also a pinch me moment too! 

 

Question: We’d love to know more about your running journey so far! How has training gone for the race?

Answer: With the big day in sight, it’s time to taper and slow things down. I’ll be honest, it’s definitely been hard. My training has been far from perfect and nothing like the polished plans you see online.

Trying to train while working full-time has been a real challenge. Life is busy, and don’t even get me started on the weather! I’ve definitely had to abandon quite a few runs thanks to the wind, rain, and even snow. But I’ve done what I can and finally the start line is in sight.

 

Question: We know you’ve also ran the Sydney marathon, can you share your top tips for runners on the day?

Answer: Enjoy the crowd! It’s the victory lap!!

Question: What's on your running playlist and get's your feet moving? 

Answer: I mix things up on my runs depending on what mood I’m in. It’s a switch from some classic bangers, house music, old school rap and pop classics.

 

Question: We’re so grateful for your support and fundraising. Can you share with us why you chose to run for Bluebell Wood?

Answer: Although I’m not a parent myself, I will never lose sight of what it means to see families caring for, or losing, a poorly child.

I came across Bluebell Wood through a local family. Over the past year, Bluebell Wood has supported Charlie and his family through the unimaginable. Alongside the incredible team at Sheffield Children’s, they are doing everything they can to keep him comfortable and free from pain in the final weeks of his life.

I’m raising money for Bluebell Wood for all the boys and girls like Charlie - and for the families who need that care, compassion, and support when they need it most. 

 

Question: And finally, we can see you’ve absolutely smashed your fundraising target! Wahoo! Do you have any top tips to share with our supporters on raising money?

Answer: Honestly, don’t just rely on social media. Talk to people. Tell as many people as you can about what you’re doing and why it matters to you. It’s surprising how many people are willing to support you when you have those real, personal conversations.

 

Give Alice an extra spring in her step!

Support Alice through the finish line by donating to her Just Giving fundraising page: Alice cooper is fundraising for Bluebell Wood Children's Hospice 

Feeling inspired?

At Bluebell Wood, we’re always creating magical memories with children and their families, but we can help you create a few of your own too! Take a look at all our charity runs – we have charity discounted and completely free places available for popular local runs near you! Find them on Our Events page alongside our challenges.