On Sunday 27th April the huge team of runners will be setting off from Blackheath in South East London and finishing a staggering 26.2 miles later in The Mall, in support of local hospice charity Havens Hospices.
The charity, which has two hospices Fair Havens and Little Havens, heavily relies on fundraising from events like the London Marathon every year to continue providing its specialist care and support to everyone in the community living with incurable conditions.
Among the team, which has collectively raised more than £130,000 and counting so far, are Lucy from Shoebury and Neil from Basildon – two first-time London Marathon runners.
Lucy Haswell, 32, works at the charity as the Fair Havens Community Team Manager and admits she never thought she’d do this. She said: “I’ve never considered myself a runner, although I was a sporty kid. I’ve spent most of my adult life avoiding anything that involved running longer than to catch a bus! But since starting at Havens Hospices in April 2022, I’ve seen the incredible care we give to people at the most difficult times in their lives.
She continued, “What began as a personal challenge quickly became something bigger. If our patients and their families can face what they do with such strength, then I can find the strength to run a marathon. This one’s for them – I’ll be thinking of them with every step.”
Lucy admits training hasn’t been easy, but says the experience has been full of special moments. “There’s something special about running for a cause you believe in. The support from the community, from other runners, from donors – it all reminds me why I’m doing this. We don’t charge a penny for our care services, so every single donation really does make a difference.”
Joining her is Neil Cohen, 35, CEO of Fastwarm, a local underfloor heating company that has been supporting Little Havens for over 15 years. He said, “Running the London Marathon has always been a dream. Since giving up alcohol in September 2023, I’ve been running five days a week. I caught the bug and haven’t looked back.”
Neil has taken part in several other races – including 10Ks, other charity runs, and last year’s Southend Half Marathon – and is looking forward to taking on his biggest race yet. He said, “I’m a little nervous, but mostly excited. Little Havens children’s hospice has always been our chosen charity. The work they do is truly remarkable, and I’m proud to do my part – however small – to show our thanks and support.”
Susie May, Challenge Fundraiser at Havens Hospices said: “We’re incredibly proud of every single member of ‘Team Havens’. Taking on 26.2 miles is no small challenge, and their dedication, passion and perseverance mean so much to everyone at the charity. Every step they take on marathon day helps raise vital funds that allow us to continue providing specialist care, completely free of charge, to those who need us – whether in our hospices or in people’s homes. We’re beyond grateful for their support, and our ‘Team Havens’ cheering squad will be out in full force along the route, celebrating them every step of the way.”
Havens Hospices will be opening applications for its London Marathon 2026 charity places soon, following the result of the public ballot, which opens on Friday 25th April. Follow @havenshospices on social media for the latest updates.
Published on 24th April 2025
