Sue Ryder continue to do amazing work to support families like mine."

Aileen Brennan's London Marathon challenge has raised nearly £2,000 for Sue Ryder, the national healthcare charity, all in memory of her beloved grandmother who was cared for at Sue Ryder Neurological Care Centre Stagenhoe.

The Hitchin-based centre provides specialist care for people with a range of neurological conditions such as Huntington's disease, Parkinson's and Multiple Sclerosis. The expert team includes Sue Ryder Nurses, physiotherapists, and healthcare assistants who all work together to support people to live their lives as fully as possible.  

Aileen Brennan's grandma, Ellen, had Huntington's disease and was cared for at Stagenhoe for the last 10 years of her life.  

Aileen completed the race in an incredible 5 hours and 32 minutes, and has so far raised nearly £2,000 for Sue Ryder.  

After months of training and preparation, the day itself was an exciting, if slightly nerve-racking one for Aileen:

"Once I'd joined in with the crowds it was impossible not to get caught up in the excitement of it all and it helped me to forget my nerves. It was amazing, people always talk about the crowd atmosphere and the support was unbelievable.

"My parents and brother were there at the dedicated Sue Ryder cheer point, which was very welcome by that stage in the run!"

Aileen thought of her grandma and the rest of her extended family to keep herself motivated along the 26.2 mile route. She has very happy memories of visiting Stagenhoe as a child, and is passionate about supporting the work that Sue Ryder does:

"They cared for Grandma so wonderfully until she passed away and Sue Ryder continue to do amazing work to support families like mine who are affected by these kinds of neurological conditions."

Sally Davies, Deputy Chief Operating Officer for Sue Ryder, said:

"We would like to extend huge congratulations to Aileen on her fantastic achievement, and to say a heartfelt thank you for raising money for Sue Ryder. This money will go towards helping so many people in some of the most difficult times in their lives.  

"Stagenhoe has provided specialist neurological care for people in Hertfordshire with a range of neurological conditions, such as Huntington's disease, for many years. It is wonderful to hear that Aileen and her family have such positive memories of her grandma's time at Stagenhoe. I hope that Aileen's inspirational story will encourage those who can to donate to her fundraising page." 

If you would like to support Aileen's challenge and to donate to the vital work done by Sue Ryder please visit: https://tcslondonmarathon.enthuse.com/pf/aileen-brennan-a16b0