Our chief executive officer, Helen Smith, put her best foot forward by completing a gruelling running challenge for our charity throughout May.
Helen, who only started running in February, chose to ‘level up’ her ‘5KMay’ challenge by running 45km instead, a nod to her 45th birthday which was also celebrated in May.
But even one of the wettest months on record didn’t deter Helen, who was determined to complete all nine 5km runs within the month.
“I wanted to really push myself and support our charity, particularly for our staff and volunteers, who’ve worked continuously across the pandemic.
There were days when I had no energy and days when I looked at the weather and dreaded it. But I’m so glad I pushed myself and took the time to finish the challenge."
St John Ambulance Cymru, Chief Executive Officer, Helen Smith
In total, Helen raised over £500 to support our lifwesaving work in Wales.
Our volunteers have been on the front line against COVID-19 throughout the pandemic, supporting Wales’ field hospitals and transporting patients to and from hospital. We're also supporting the vaccination roll-out across Wales, giving care to people after their jabs.
“I’m so glad it’s over! Anyone who knows me knows I’m not a runner, so was quite apprehensive starting out, but kept going and I’m so glad I did.
Not only was the challenge really beneficial both mentally and physically, I surpassed my fundraising target, which is amazing, and I want to say a huge thank you to everyone who supported me on my journey.”
“Many of our fundraising activities were paused over the past 14 months due to a whole host of restrictions. However, our services were needed more than ever, as we responded to more calls, took on new challenges and supported people across Wales in new ways.
Thanks to fundraisers like Helen taking on 5kMay or other personal challenges, we’ve been able to continue our work in Welsh communities. Without their support we simply wouldn’t be able to do what we do.
Helen put her best foot forward to show how important our charity is to her and to Wales. The fact that she’s our CEO just adds to the pride I feel for our organisation and the people who carry out, and support, our lifesaving work.”
St John Ambulance Cymru, Appeals Manager, Samantha Coles
If Helen’s journey has inspired you take on your own challenge, you can learn more about fundraising for St John Ambulance Cymu here.
Support Helen by donating to her JustGiving page here.