GRANDMOTHER Susan Dyson used to “hate running with a vengeance” but is now training for her first Virgin London Marathon.
The 59-year-old pilates teacher and certified nutritionist hopes her capital adventure will raise £2,000 for Arthritis Care.
“I despised running but I wanted to get healthier,” explained mum-of-five Susan. “So, I joined Lifestyle gym in Greenfield.
“But I looked at the treadmill and thought ‘I don’t know how to walk on one of those things, never mind run on one.
“However, I figured it was a good way of losing weight and I have never looked back.”
Susan, from Salem, has chosen Arthritis Care as her charity because her mum, Hilda, was a sufferer.
“But it’s not just an old people’s problem,” explained Susan, who was diagnosed in 2008 with fibromyalgia, a debilitating muscular condition causing widespread pain. “Babies can be born with arthritis.
“It’s probably not a fashionable charity but they need more assistance so they can help sufferers to enjoy better lives.”
Susan, temporarily side-lined by a sprained ankle, completed the Salford 10K and Milltown to Moors 7K last year.
She has now pencilled in this month’s Blackpool Half Marathon ahead of her London debut on April 24.
Husband Dave will be among her fan club on the big day but has been warned not to see Susan among the front runners.
“I don’t expect to do below six hours,” she confirmed. “I can’t seem to shift from 15 minute miles but as long as I cross the line, I’ll be happy. Not finishing isn’t an option.”
To help Susan raise funds for Arthritis Care visit https://www.justgiving.com/Sue-Dyson1
You must be logged in to post a comment.