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Date of release: 6th September 2024
Chaplain Joe gets set for family fundraiser
A Chaplain is taking on a half marathon to raise money to support local families affected by pregnancy loss.
Joe Fielder, Team Lead for Chaplaincy with The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust, will be taking part in the AJ Bell Great North Run this Sunday 8 September .
The event will see 60,000 runners taking on the 13.1-mile route from Newcastle to South Shields.
He is raising money for three charities: The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust (RWT) Charity, Dementia UK and Ehlers- Danlos Support UK.
The 57-year-old who is based at New Cross Hospital, said:
“I am doing this fundraiser as I am one of the hospital Chaplains, and as a Chaplaincy Team we are frequently called to support those affected by pregnancy loss – from early pregnancy, through midterm to late pregnancy and neonatal death.
“We have some amazing nursing staff and Midwives that provide excellent care. I help to support mums and dads who have the sad journey of saying hello and goodbye to their little ones in a short space of time so I want to help raise funds for resources so that they can create mementos and precious memories.
“I am a regular parkrunner (currently on 305 parkruns) but normally run anything between 5km and 12km in one go. A half marathon (21 km) is a bit of a step up. I have been training for six months and this is my third, and most hilliest, half marathon. I hope to complete the course in two hours and 30 minutes.
“I’m most looking forward to the physiotherapy session booked for the morning after! Apart from the finish line, I am also really looking forward to the camaraderie of fellow runners and soaking up the views and the atmosphere.”
The father-of-five added: “I am excited to raise money for these worthy causes as it will help make a difference to people. I am grateful to be reasonably fit, healthy and to have the freedom and opportunity to run.”
Amanda Winwood, Charity Development Manager said:
“We know how difficult pregnancy loss is and how important the aftercare is for families. Every little moment during this time makes all the difference.
“We would like to thank Joe for supporting us with this and helping to raise awareness. We wish him the best of luck on his run and will be rooting for him all the way.”
To make a donation, please go to the SponsorMe website here: https://bit.ly/4cS3NI4