Meet our Great North Runner Andrea

With only two weeks to go until the Great North Run, we caught up with one of our runners Andrea to see how her training is going, and what inspired her to run for Team Martin House.

What inspired you to participate in the Great North Run for Martin House?

This year I’m taking on the Great North Run for a cause incredibly close to my heart. My daughter Maeve, who is 5 and lives with Cockayne Syndrome – a life limiting condition that means her care needs are constant, day and night.

For nearly two years, Martin House Children’s Hospice has been a lifeline for our family. Their compassion, expertise and genuine love have given us precious moments of rest, time to recharge, and the reassurance that Maeve is cared for by people who truly understand her.

We also know that one day, heartbreakingly, our time at Martin House will shift from respite to end of life care. Knowing the warmth, peace and dignity they provide brings us comfort as we prepare for what lies ahead. Their support means we can focus on surrounding Maeve with love and creating memories to carry forward.

Running the GNR has always been on my bucket list – now I get to achieve it while giving back to the place that has given us so much. Every step is a thank you, and every donation helps Martin House continue supporting families like ours through the hardest moments imaginable.

How are you preparing for Race Day, and what keeps you motivated during training?

I’ve been running consistently for a couple of years, but training for the Great North Run properly kicked off in April, and got serious in June when I started following an online plan. Long runs, speed work, intervals, easy days… mixing it all has kept me focused and motivated.

I also do resistance training 2–3 times a week, which has massively improved my strength and endurance. What keeps me going? Imagining that moment I turn the corner and see the finish line. That feeling will be everything.

Can you share your fundraising experience and any tips for others?

Most of my fundraising has been through social media with Maeve as my little star helper. I’ve shared videos of her “telling” everyone that her mummy is running the GNR for Martin House and asking for support. Maeve is non verbal, so I do the talking for her, but making it personal – about her, and about families facing similar challenges – has really encouraged people to donate.

What advice would you give to someone considering running as part of Team Martin House?

Do it. You’ll achieve something incredible for your own physical and mental wellbeing, and you’ll be supporting a place that brings light, hope and exceptional care to children and families in their darkest moments. It’s meaningful, it’s powerful, and it truly makes a difference.