A BROWNIE leader from Coventry successfully completed the London Marathon course to raise vital funds for a deafblind charity.
Katherine Beattie was inspired to take on her first ever marathon to help raise awareness of the vital work Sense does.
The charity – which has supported Katherine’s deafblind brother Rob throughout his life – supports those with sensory impairments and complex needs.
Rob now lives at the charity’s residential home in Kings Norton, and Katherine’s decision to run the marathon for Sense came just two years after she started running.
The 35-year-old juggled her race training with caring for her three children and her role as a Brownie leader to cross the finish line in 6hrs 20mins.
More than £1,500 has already been raised for Sense, and Katherine already has plans to push that sum over £2,000.
She said: “Crossing the finish line of the London Marathon is an incredible feeling and it was satisfying to claim my medal after 26 long miles on a hot and tough day.
“This was my year to train hard, achieve goals and raise money for a charity that is extremely close to my heart and it feels amazing to have achieved this.
“Sense was a massive part of my family’s life when I was growing up and continues to provide a lovely house and support for Rob.”
The mum-of-three hasn’t ruled out completing another marathon in the not too distant future either.
She added: “The atmosphere and support throughout the race really made it worth it.
“Although I was slower on the day than I had hoped, I’m delighted that I’ve helped raise vital money to help Sense continue to support families like mine.
“I’m very grateful to all those who contributed towards my fundraising and I hope I made them proud.”
Visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Katherinehutchi to sponsor Katherine and support the work of Sense.
