Spalding hairdresser takes on London Marathon challenge for Macmillan Cancer Support
A hairdresser is raising funds for a charity close to her heart after securing a place in next year’s TCS London Marathon.
Strands of Spalding owner Sharon Tear, 53, says she feels very lucky and is delighted to have a place in the 26.2-mile race, which takes place on Sunday, April 27.
Sharon underwent treatment for cervical cancer ten years ago and will be raising funds for the Spalding and Holbeach fundraising branch of MacMillan Cancer Support, of which she’s been a committee member since 2007.
“I’ve never run a marathon before, although I did walk the Boston to Skegness one many years ago. I just think to say you’ve run the London Marathon is such an achievement,” she said.
“I really wanted to do it. It’s ten years since I had cancer, I’m at my fittest – it was a now or never moment!
“I applied through the ballot but didn’t get a place, so I approached MacMillan to see if it had any charity places. I heard back a couple of months ago to say they’d like to offer me one. I feel so lucky - I’m really looking forward to it.”
As well as training for the marathon, Sharon also needs to raise £2,500 for MacMillan and is nearly halfway there after launching an online donation page, selling orchids and holding a collection at a recent party.
She added: “I’ve got seven months to go. I’m training hard, I’ve been cycling to work, going to Everybody’s Gym and taking Pilates classes with Tracey Vowels, who have both said they will help prepare me.
“I’m doing the marathon on my own, but I’ve spoken to others who have done it previously and they’ve told me it can get really emotional along the route with all the wonderful support out there.
“There are five cheer points for MacMillan supporters, and I have friends and family coming down to cheer me on too, I’m really looking forward to it!
“I’m not pressuring myself to get a time, I just don’t want to be last over the line!”
* You can support Sharon’s online fundraising page at justgiving.com/page/sharon-tear-1723639662768
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