Trio run 100 miles to support cancer unit at Conquest Hospital

Conquest 100 mile run SUS-200408-133959001

The trio took on their challenge to show their gratitude for the work of the Cancer Unit, treated family members, military diver David Gray, brother Pieter and close family friend ultra-runner Adam Gamble decided on raising money for the unit by running 100 miles nonstop cross country from Portsmouth to Playden, near Rye.

Consuming numerous snacks including a whole jar of peanut butter, 80 litres of water; losing two nails and developing huge blisters, the trio finished the multiple marathons in just 26 hours and 23 minutes.

The 23 minutes were added on for being chased by a bull and getting lost in woods when their GPS failed.

Their support crew kept moral high throughout the very gruelling challenge, however, unluckily, co-runner, Pieter, had to pull out after 40 miles due to kidney pain but was able to re-join his friends for the finish line and is completing the rest this week.

David Gray’s father, and former patient, Adrian Gray and former patient Francis Hadfield, were there to greet them at the finish line.

Mike Eastwood, of the Friends of the Conquest Hospital, said: “All three runners are now very stiff and moving around rather slowly but thoroughly enjoyed the run and are ecstatic they smashed their £1,500 target of money raised for the unit.

Judy Beard Unit Matron Hayley Bird expressed how very grateful all the team at the unit are and said the money will be used for equipment needed to assist in patient care delivery and also to provide comfort to future patients.

The Fundraising will officially finish on Sunday August 9. If you would like to make a donation in support of the Judy Beard Unit and the lads’ amazing effort their JustGiving page remains open, www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/running-for-judy-beard-chemotheraphy-unit.

The Friends of Conquest Hospital is a registered charity whose aim is to support the hospital by raising funds to improve health care and comfort.