Determined staff from Dorset County Hospital made a marathon effort to raise thousands for a worthy cause. 

Sophie Claxton and Sandra Wilks ran the London Marathon in aid of charity projects at the hospital. Both had personal reasons for taking part in the marathon, and wanted to support DCH at the same time. 

Sophie is a staff nurse in day surgery, and ran the marathon for the hospital’s Cancer Appeal. She was inspired to do something when two of her immediate family were diagnosed with cancer last year. 

She said: “The marathon was amazing, a mental and physical challenge but the atmosphere was electrics, the crows supportive and the other runners very inspiring. 

“My sister had made a playlist for my ipod to help me round the course, and every six or seven songs there was a recorded message from a member of my family. This helped get me through but made me very emotional.”

She raised £4,000 for the Cancer Appeal with a quiz night, raffle and cake sales to support the work that staff do in the Fortuneswell Unit. The Prison Service Charity Fund also contributed £500. 

The Cancer Appeal is part of a major project bringing radiotherapy services to Dorchester for the first time, seeking to raise £1.75 million to support the provision of radiotherapy services. Over 60 per cent of the target has been raised so far. 

The money will provide a bespoke outpatients department on top of the radiotherapy building as well as major improvements to the existing outpatients unit. 

Sophie and Sandra have been working with the hospital charity to raise awareness and encourage support from friends, the local community and local businesses. 

Sandra had a dramatic experience of the marathon. She shared stories with other runners including the oldest man taking part, supported other runners and had to have treatment on her knee to keep going. 

She said: “The first few miles were easy and surreal. At mile 18 I saw my amazing husband and boys. The last 10km were hard, I was hot and dizzy. 

“At mile 25 I was at Big Ben in tears and a lady gave me her last orange – it was the best orange of my life.”

Sandra has raised £700 for the Day Lewis ward. 

To support the Cancer Appeal or other projects at the hospital, contact the charity on 01305 253470, email charity@dchft.nhs.uk or visit www.dchft.nhs.uk/charity.