London Adidas Women’s 5k Challenge
Sunday 6th September 2009

Some months ago I must have taken leave of all my senses when I agreed to participate in a 5k run in the famous gardens of Hyde Park in London. I do not normally agree to such energetic exercises but after all it was going to be for a good cause- the PIA - and a cause close to my heart.

The day before on Saturday 5th September the PIA together with the team of the Royal Free Hospital had organised a meeting for patients, which was very well attended by about 170 people. A most interesting programme kept the audience glued to their seats, followed by workshops and at the end of the day many went home with an increased knowledge about their conditions. A more in depth report on this meeting will follow in another edition.

Sunday morning came and Sarita Workman – the clinical research nurse at the Royal Free Hospital - had agreed to keep me company. I supposed she felt that she had to make sure that her patient was doing alright. The sun was shining as we arrived at Hyde Park at 10 a.m. with thousands of other women, all running, walking and raising money for the various charities. This was strictly a “women only” event.

The PIA group totalled 25 runners (walkers) and in no time at all we had become separated from each other. Not surprising as it took over 30 minutes just to get to the starting line. Quite amazing to see so many women in different colours to identify their special charities, young and old, athletic and not so very fit, but all having a great time.

Sary and I did not run, but walked very steadily, shed the odd tear or two and talked quite a lot, as you would expect women to do! It was quite an emotional experience especially when you see messages written on peoples’ t-shirts to their departed loved ones.

When we had completed the many kilometres we were even given a goodie bag and a medal. Unfortunately no champagne! Our time was just over one hour and yes I have agreed to do it again next year and hope that many more patients, nurses, doctors will join us.

The target was £2500 and it is too soon to know how much has actually been collected, but I am sure that it is increasing as I am writing this piece.

Finally I would like to say a big thank you to all who joined - Sary, Amena Warner and many of her patients and all those friends and family of the PIA, especially Nichola Page who organised us, recruited us and looked after us.

Jose Drabwell