Micheala steps out to raise funds for N E baby hospice
Wearside hotel manager Michaela Tipp ran through the pain barrier to raise hundreds of pounds for the funding of care for children with lifelimiting illnesses and their families.
Michaela, 26, manager of the Campanile in Washington, shook off an ankle injury to battle through the Great North Run in just three hours, and raise £600 – double her target – for Zoe’s Place Baby Hospice in Middlesbrough.
Zoe’s Place, in Normanby, is a registered charity that pro- vides palliative, respite and end of life care to babies and infants aged from birth to five.
Michaela was inspired to take on the 13.1-mile challenge after hearing about the support a family friend had received from the hospice when their child passed away.
“I was originally advised to sit out the race as I had an ankle injury, but as it hadn’t caused me any problems during ten weeks of training I decided to do it,” she said.
“I fell at the six-mile point and was really struggling, but after walking off the pain I managed to get running again.
“The atmosphere from the crowd was spectacular throughout and there is no way anyone could give up with the motivation they provide.
“I was an emotional wreck at the finish line when I saw all of the other runners celebrating.
“The experience will live with me forever, and I can see why they call it one of the world’s favourite races.
“The hospice set me a fundraising target of £300, so to double that with the help of friends, family and co-workers is amazing.”
Michaela’s colleagues at the Campanile also pledged £150 towards her cause.
Mark Aldridge, director of operations at Louvre Hotels Group, added: “Campanile Hotels encourages a charitable culture and is always pleased to hear when a member of staff is taking on a challenge in aid of a good cause. We are delighted so many of the team supported Michaela.”