Fundraiser to run back garden marathon for Farleigh Hospice

On Sunday 26th April local runner and fundraiser Victoria Darnell will run 26.2 miles – the equivalent of a marathon – in her back garden to help raise money and awareness for Farleigh Hospice through the COVID-19 pandemic.

Victoria’s amazing fundraising efforts are part of the 2.6 Challenge, a nationwide virtual challenge that launches on Sunday 26th April and encourages people to set themselves a unique challenge based around the number 2.6 or 26. The aim is to raise money for charities affected by the cancellation and postponement of fundraising events over the next few months due to the pandemic.

Farleigh Hospice is, therefore, encouraging the community of mid Essex to join Victoria and become one of Farleigh Hospice’s home hero’s and take on the challenge. No matter your age, ability or talents there are plenty of amazing things you can do in your home or garden, from going up and down the stairs 26 times, juggle for 2.6 minutes, a 26 minute workout, bake 26 identical cakes or get 26 friends together for a virtual quiz. The challenge launches on the 26th of April but anyone can take part at any time, allowing plenty of time to plan and raise money for Farleigh.

Why not join Victoria and take part in the 2.6 challenge. Ahead of her back garden marathon, Victoria said “I wanted to raise money for a local charity, and I chose Farleigh Hospice as I know someone who received their care about 18 months ago and I know how brilliant Farleigh was for them. It costs Farleigh £21,271 every day to run their services and support people in mid Essex with life-limiting illnesses. This pandemic is proving to be difficult financially, so I thought if I can do something silly to help out, then why not?” 

Alison Stevens, Chief Executive of Farleigh Hospice said: “This Sunday was due to be the London Marathon, one of our biggest annual fundraising events. The marathon has been postponed until 4th October, however without the income from the event in April we are facing an initial shortfall of nearly £100,000. This has come at a time when the need for our services has increased and Farleigh team are working on the frontline, caring for people living with a life-limiting illness and supporting the NHS. The 2.6 Challenge is a great way to support us, it is fun for all the family and every penny you raise will help us continue to care, now and in the future. So please come and join us, make a difference and become a Farleigh Hospice home hero.”

For more information on the 2.6 Challenge and how to become a Farleigh Hospice home hero simply visit: www.farleighhospice.org/virtual-fundraising