Sixteen Days to Go: Safeline’s London Marathon Runners Reflect on Their Journey

With just over two weeks to go until the London Marathon, Safeline’s dedicated team of runners are lacing up for one of the biggest challenges of their lives – both physically and emotionally. Representing Safeline on the iconic 26.2-mile route through the heart of London, Rachel, Sam, and Hannah have not only been training hard, but also raising vital funds to support survivors of sexual abuse and rape.

Rachel: “The fear is sinking in – but I’ll be crossing that line one way or another.”

Although the reality of race day is fast approaching, Rachel is staying focused and optimistic. “It still doesn’t feel real,” she shared, “but the fear is sinking in! But I know I’ll be crossing that line one way or another.”

Reflecting on her training, she acknowledges the ups and downs. “Not bad actually! I wasn’t sure what to expect, I’ve had my fair share of mishaps, but that’s the point of training. I won’t be breaking any records, but showing up day in day out I think is the true marathon.”

For Rachel, the most memorable part of her journey so far has been the outpouring of support: “Seeing the generosity and support from friends and strangers! I’ve had so much support from work, which I honestly didn’t expect. So many of my conversations are about how I’m doing—it’s so, so lovely.”

Her fundraising motivation is clear: “I know Safeline will absolutely use this money for good—from simple thoughtful touches like soft tissues in their new counselling rooms, to being able to support as many people as possible through the most appropriate counselling.”

Donate to Rachel’s fundraising page

Sam: “If I have helped at least one person get out of a dark place then I can say I have made a difference”

For Sam, excitement is building. “I am really excited and looking forward to the run which is only a couple of weeks away now. I have heard the crowds are amazing and having friends and family cheering me on will make it so much easier!”

Sam’s training has included some serious mileage. “I recently completed my longest run in the training plan which was 20 miles (32k) and I’m making the most of the lovely weather!” He’s also kept momentum high by taking part in a wide range of local events: “I have participated in many local running events in the past few months… I specifically enjoyed the Warwick Half Marathon since I got to run in the town I grew up in. I did also get a PB there which helps!”

Sam even brought humour into his campaign. “With the help of my friends, I made a funny montage video for Instagram. I hope that it spurs more people on to run London Marathon for Safeline in the future!”

On fundraising, he reflects: “I have managed to raise far more than I originally thought and I am so thankful for all the kind and generous people that have donated to this cause… If I have helped at least one person get out of a dark place then I can say I have made a difference.”

Donate to Sam’s fundraising page

Hannah: “Safeline mean a lot to me—both personally and professionally.”

Just months ago, Hannah hadn’t run more than a few kilometres. Now, she’s more than ready. “I am really excited! Before reaching the 20-mile run milestone I was terrified, but now I have that under my belt, I feel I’m ready for the main event and can’t wait to experience it!”

Her training progress has been nothing short of inspirational: “I could not even run 5km when I got the ballot place in June. I can now run 20 miles; and they were hilly miles! I have surpassed all expectations in myself and am extremely proud of my achievements.”

She credits the community for helping her get this far. “Discovering the amazing running community; the support at events and on social media is beyond what I had ever imagined. Also the incredible support from my friends, family and the wonderful team at Safeline. It has been a great motivation, especially on the really achy days!”

For Hannah, this challenge is deeply personal. “Safeline mean a lot to me; both personally and professionally. Their support is a lifeline for so many people and now more than ever they need donations. The level of funding cuts this year has hit them hard… The National Male Helpline was at risk of closure due to the funding cuts. It is currently safe for another year thanks to donations, but more needs to be done to financially secure its future. No survivor should ever feel one of their lifelines might be taken away.”

Donate to Hannah’s fundraising page

As race day draws closer, Safeline is immensely proud of our runners. Their strength, dedication, and compassion are not only helping raise vital funds – but showing survivors that they are never alone. Every mile run, every donation made, is another step towards a safer, more supportive future.

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