Slimming World Head Office staff conquer the 2024 London Marathon
Two colleagues at Slimming World’s Head Office, based in Alfreton, Derbyshire, have completed the 2024 London Marathon in aid of Alzheimer’s Research UK.
Emily Young and Lianne Bush ran as part of the 17-strong team, made up of Slimming World members, Consultants and Head Office staff. The runners raised an incredible £51,000 for Cancer Research UK, the Irish Cancer Society and Alzheimer’s Research UK, Slimming World’s official charity partners.
By running the marathon, Emily and Lianne aimed to raise awareness of how healthy eating and moving more can protect our physical and brain health. According to Alzheimer’s Research UK’s ‘Think Brain Health’ campaign, being active is one of several ways people can help protect brain health and reduce their risk of dementia in later life.
Food Data Manager and Registered Nutritionist Emily, 43, from Alfreton, says: “When I found out I’d secured a spot on the team I was in disbelief. I’ve entered the ballot for the last 15 years and have never been successful. It’s a dream come true, and it means so much to have run in aid of Alzheimer's Research UK as it’s a charity very close to my heart."
I ran the marathon in memory of my Grandma Edna, Grandad Harold and my mother-in-law, Vera – who were all very dear to me, and who all lived with a form of dementia. It’s been amazing to have the opportunity to help a charity which works so hard find a cure for this disease.
Lianne, 35, from Leabrooks, who works as a Field Support Team Manager, says: “I’ve loved being part of the Slimming World marathon team! We’ve motivated and cheered each other on every step of the way, and it’s been really helpful to share fundraising ideas and training advice.
“Emily and I have held a number of fundraising activities at Head Office, and they were all met with so much support and enthusiasm by our colleagues. We ran a guess my time sweepstake, and even organised a sponsored walk in the Peak District. "
We’re so grateful for everyone’s donations and all the well wishes that got us through training and the big day itself!
Lucy Squance, Director of Supporter Led Fundraising at Alzheimer’s Research UK says:
"We’re truly grateful to Emily, Lianne and the team of dedicated Slimming World runners for taking in the London Marathon to raise much-needed funds and awareness for Alzheimer's Research UK. We loved cheering from the side-lines and celebrating with them at the finish line.
“Tragically, dementia is the UK’s biggest killer and if nothing changes, one in two of us will be directly affected by it, either by developing it ourselves, caring for someone with it, or both. Alzheimer’s Research UK exists for a cure and it’s people like Emily and Lianne, and organisations like Slimming World, who will help us find one. We can’t thank them enough for standing (or running) with us!”