An East Cheshire NHS worker has raised nearly £500, almost double her initial target, to support her local NHS hospitals, by completing a gruelling 22 kilometres race in the Lake District, in the shadows of some of England's tallest mountains.
The run, part of the ‘13 Valleys Ultra’ series, took place amid stormy conditions, leading the organisers to make adverse weather kit mandatory.
Karolina Stepien-Bialy, the Medical Workforce Productivity Lead at East Cheshire NHS Trust said: “I must admit when I was stood on the start line I was blown away by two things. Firstly, the incredible generosity and support of all those who sponsored me. And secondly, the incredible wind battering us all!
“But carrying additional kit throughout the race only added to the challenge, and I was fully prepared thanks to my wife, Kinga, a seasoned ultrarunner, who made sure I was properly equipped for whatever the Lake District decided to throw at me.
“The Lake District is a truly spectacular place for trail running. The scenery is breathtaking, and there is something very special about running through valleys, alongside lakes and beneath towering mountains. While the terrain and weather tested me throughout the course, they also made crossing the finish line that much more rewarding.
“Taking part was both exciting and daunting, and it pushed me well outside of my comfort zone, and to be able to do this while raising money for a fantastic cause made it an unforgettable experience.”
Lily Preston, Fundraising and Events Manager at East Cheshire NHS Chairty, said: “Karolina really went the extra mile in completing this demanding run in support of our charity, especially in such challenging weather conditions.
“We’re so grateful to her for her commitment and determination, and for the generosity of all those wonderful people who sponsored her.”
The East Cheshire NHS Charity raises money to support the health and wellbeing on patients, colleagues and visitors across hospitals in Knutsford, Congleton and Macclesfield in East Cheshire.
People can support Karolina on her Just Giving page at www.justgiving.com/page/k-stepien-bialy-2.
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