Most people would call running one marathon a year a major accomplishment. Still, Bedfordian Sue Pearson has completed seven in just seven days, clocking 184 miles across Bedfordshire to raise money for three charities close to her heart.
Setting off on Saturday, 10 May and crossing her final finish line on Friday, 16 May, Sue ran a full marathon (26.2 miles) each day as part of her boldest challenge yet, raising funds for Macmillan Cancer Support, Sue Ryder – St John’s Hospice, and the Bedford Blues Foundation.
Speaking to the Bedford Independent after her final run, Sue admitted: “This was one of, if not the toughest challenge I’ve ever undertaken, and there have been a few!”
But she said this has given her “A sense of achievement I’ll never forget”
4am wake up
Each morning during the challenge began with a 4am wake-up, followed by lengthy and exhausting miles on routes throughout the county.
By the mid-point in the week, things got even harder, after Sue suffered a fall on Wednesday that left her nursing injuries, but she was determined to continue.
“The fatigue really set in,” she said. “My injuries made it progressively harder as the week went on. But I kept going, and I’m so proud I finished.”
Sue’s efforts totalled 184 miles in seven days, the equivalent of running from Bedford to Blackpool. With every step, she raised money and awareness for organisations that have played a massive role in her life.
Macmillan Cancer Support and Sue Ryder were key in supporting Sue’s friends and family during difficult times, and the Bedford Blues Foundation, where her husband John is a trustee, has long been a source of inspiration, working to improve young people’s lives through sport and mentorship.
More challenges to come
“The support has been incredible,” she told us.
While the challenge was mentally and physically gruelling, Sue says the encouragement she received helped push her through the pain.
“There were low points, especially the fall, but the highlights included finally finishing, the amazing support crew around me, and the incredible friends and family who cheered me on every day.”
So, what’s next?
“Honestly? I want to sleep!” she laughed. “But there will probably be more challenges on the horizon. I just need a bit of time to recover.”
Sue and John Pearson have dedicated hundreds of hours to fundraising over the years. This latest achievement continues a proud tradition and shows no sign of slowing down.
You can donate to Sue’s three chosen charities via her fundraising page.
