Gemma takes on Cardiff

Posted by Sam Bowie on 26 October 2012

In October 2012, Gemma Carroll ran the Cardiff Half Marathon for the RNOH Charity. She talks below about what inspired her to take on the challenge…

I decided to do my run for RNOH Charity as the hospital helped my Grandad, Michael, when he experienced a life-threatening fall in 2009. The hospital helped him recover, and be in the position that he is in today. My Grandad constantly raves about how all the staff are 'marvellous', and so this is my chance to say thank you from the Carroll family. 

I am very lucky that I have been able to rely upon my friends, family, and colleagues to support me on my quest to raise money. They have all given generously and have really helped me to reach my target - I had to raise my target amount three times!!

To anyone else considering doing a similar event in aid of the RNOH Charity, I would say...YOU CAN DO IT!! I honestly didn't think that I would be able to complete the race, but the crowd, the other runners, my family, my friends… everyone supported me and gave me the strength to complete it. I would say, think positively and you will definitely be able to complete it - just keep going! I really do believe that your frame of mind helps you to complete an endurance race...a 'can do' mentality is so important to have, otherwise you are destined to fail. Doing the marathon was such a memorable day, and there is no feeling like the one I experienced at the finish line.

I would definitely consider raising money for the RNOH Charity again. It really is a fabulous charity and if my Grandad (pictured, right) didn't have the support he had, then he may not be in the position he’s in today. I’d recommend to anyone that they support the charity, and I hope to do so for many years to come.