News
Why Linda, Meath Activity Leader is Joining Team Meath & Taking on The Surrey Half Marathon
Linda joined The Meath in June 2024 as a Skills Centre Activity Leader. Since then, she has brought energy, creativity and enthusiasm to her role, supporting people across a wide range of activities in our busy Skills Centre.
Currently, Linda leads sessions in Food Technology, Horticulture, Art, Reading group and Yoga. She also supports Choir and Drama sessions which are led by external practitioners.
Asked what she enjoys most about her role, Linda shared
“Working with the people we support is incredibly rewarding. The care, energy and commitment I bring to each day are returned a hundredfold in so many meaningful ways. Knowing that I can make a positive difference in someone’s life is what makes the work so fulfilling.”
Linda’s positive attitude and thriving in a high-energy, vibrant environment is a real asset for the Skills Centre and seeing this in action with the people we support is truly life- affirming.
An Active Lifestyle
Her enthusiasm extends far beyond the workplace. Staying active is a big part of her life and this helps bring the same energy and positivity she shares in the Skills Centre. She explains
“I’m an active person and enjoy keeping fit and spending time outdoors. I start and end my day walking with my dog, Noah, which is something I really enjoy. Over the past two years, I’ve also got back into running, and it’s now a part of my routine.”
Until recently, Linda regularly ran 5k-10k but is now gradually increasing her distance in preparation for running the Surrey Half in March 2027.
Linda's Running History
Linda explained how she first got into running,
“I started running again about 2 years ago, joining the local NHS Couch to 5K (a local running group encouraging people to give running a try). The support from the group was helpful for my confidence and growth. These days I enjoy running solo.”
Impressively, Linda went on to complete a half marathon back in 2007 before taking on the iconic London Marathon in 2008, raising money for a local hospice at the time. Linda stepped away from running for around 10 years, before starting again about two years ago by joining a local Couch to 5K group.
Getting back into running has become an enjoyable part of Linda’s routine, and she is now taking on the Surrey Half as part of Team Meath. While running the London Marathon was an incredible achievement, Linda explains that this time feels different, as she is running with a cause that is much closer to her heart.
“Its been around 18 years since I have covered this kind of distance on a run and I look forward to the challenge!”
Taking on the Surrey Half Marathon
“It’s the right time for me to take on this challenge, I signed up instantly when I saw it because The Meath is so close to my heart.”
Linda also explained that part of the appeal for her was also that the distance and fundraising target felt like a challenge, but an achievable one.
The Half Marathon event takes place on 21st March in Woking. Linda wants to push herself, but is not expecting to beat a personal best, she explained
“It’s just important to me to do my best. For me, The Meath and taking part as a Team Meath runner is at the heart of this challenge.”
Linda also explained that it makes a difference to feel supported by The Meath and be a part of Team Meath- a group of fellow supporters who are running the 13 mile+ distance in support of the charity. With the fundraising team on hand during her fundraising campaign and cheering on runners on the day, Linda explained
“I feel well supported. The Fundraising Team are on hand to support and it’s great that on the day of the event, they will be there on The Meath stand. This really is an opportunity to be a part of The Meath community.”
Surrey Half Marathon
Why fundraising for The Meath is personal
“I want to use this opportunity to raise awareness and funds for the people supported by The Meath as best I can. I’m privileged to see the impact of fundraised income every day as part of my work, and I know that every donation really does make a difference.”
Support from Colleagues
As well as support from the Fundraising & Marketing Team, Linda is thrilled to receive support from colleagues. Luke, Meath Fitness Instructor, has been advising her on training strategy.
“Luke has given me some great advice on cadence and techniques, and once the weather gets wetter and muddy it will be a huge help to use the Meath gym for training.”
Also joining Team Meath and taking on The Surrey Half Marathon are Celia, Skills Centre Manager and Catherine, HR Assistant. We wish them all the very best for their training and look forward to cheering them on at the event!
To support Linda’s Half Marathon Run in aid of The Meath, please visit her fundraising page. Every donation means a lot and makes a genuine difference to the lives of the people we support.
https://givestar.io/profile/2125ae7c-1257-46cf-89c2-1cd8fa456c1d
