As we count down to the Virgin London Marathon 2013, we are celebrating the people who are training and fundraising in support of Anthony Nolan. Every Monday, we are featuring one of our runners to tell you a bit more about their experience.
Yorkshire resident Jo Buckton, 38, started volunteering for Anthony Nolan after she was diagnosed with leukaemia in 2007. Jo is now a Regional Mentor for Register and Be a Lifesaver, Anthony Nolan's education programme which teaches 16-18 year olds about the importance of blood, organ, and bone marrow donation.
Why are you running the Virgin London Marathon for Anthony Nolan?
I had Leukaemia in 2007 but was fortunate enough that I didn’t need a stem cell transplant and recovered through therapy and blood transfusions. I want to raise money to help other people with blood cancer. I am also running the marathon in memory of my mum who lost her battle to breast cancer in 2006. Her strength and courage during her battle is my inspiration to keep going even when it’s a struggle. This challenge is nothing compared to the challenges she faced on a daily basis.
What does this marathon mean to you?
Running a marathon is life changing! Essentially, I know that the £1800 I raise will put new donors on the register hopefully give someone else the chance of life. I also get fit, make my family proud, and get to go to a party my friends are throwing for me.
What music do you listen to when running?
In 2011, I ran the Great North Run and my family and friends dedicated songs onto my iPhone. When I am struggling with my training, I listen to the tunes that make me think of all those people who have inspired me.
What’s the funniest thing that has happened to you when running?
I slowed down on the treadmill to take a drink of water; when I took the lid off I didn’t realise I was squeezing the bottle slightly and squirted myself in the face with water. Of course, the fit man on the next treadmill couldn’t stop laughing at me.
If you could overtake a celebrity, who would it be and why?
Mo Farah! I would then go down in history and get loads of publicity for Anthony Nolan.
What will be the first thing you will do when you finish the race?
Laugh and cry at the same time, then give my son a cuddle.
What would you say to someone thinking of doing a challenge event for Anthony Nolan?
Get online and register today! Anthony Nolan are incredibly supportive and the team help you with fundraising, training and publicity. You will be helping to cure blood cancer, which is a pretty incredible achievement.
Supporters can sponsor Jo online at http://www.justgiving.com/Jo-Buckton1
Would you like to join our team in 2014?
You can apply now to secure your place in the 2014 Virgin London Marathon by simply filling out this application form. We’ll start allocating our places on Friday 26 April 2013, so make sure you get your application in soon.
If you have any questions about the Virgin London Marathon, or about any of the other fundraising events we have on offer, drop us a line on 0303 303 3000 or email events@anthonynolan.org and we will be happy to help.