Tara Kemp, a 26-year-old from South Oxfordshire, is preparing for her first London Marathon this April. She aims to raise funds for Sue Ryder in memory of her late stepmother, Di, a former piano teacher who passed away on December 26, 2023, at the age of 47.
Fundraising Efforts and Inspiration
Kemp has successfully raised nearly £7,000 toward her £7,500 target, becoming the top fundraiser for Sue Ryder in her region. Her inspiration comes from her stepmother, who enjoyed running and previously completed the Oxford Half Marathon. Tara expressed, “Taking on the London Marathon felt like the meaningful ‘go big or go home’ choice.”
Supporting Families Through Sue Ryder
Di was diagnosed with bowel cancer in 2019. As her health declined, Tara and her family chose to care for her at home, supported by Sue Ryder’s Palliative Care Hub in South Oxfordshire. “Sue Ryder nurses visited twice a day and supported with the care, allowing us to focus on moments of happiness together,” said Kemp. Their compassion provided Di a necessary space to express her feelings while losing her independence.
Training for the Marathon
Despite undergoing recent leg surgery, Tara’s training is going well. She has utilized her work in London to run around iconic locations such as Hyde Park and along the Thames to Battersea, noticing improvements in her pace. “I’m starting to get a bit scared about race day, but not because of the physical side of things; more the emotions,” she noted.
Community Support and Fundraising Event
A significant portion of Tara’s fundraising came from an event she organized. This included a live band, friends managing the bar, and her father serving chips. Supporters wishing to contribute to her campaign can follow the link to Tara Kemp’s fundraising for Sue Ryder.
- Runner: Tara Kemp, 26
- Location: South Oxfordshire
- Marathon: London Marathon, April 2024
- Funds Raised: Nearly £7,000 of £7,500 target
- Stepmother: Di, passed away December 26, 2023
- Diagnosis: Bowel cancer since 2019
Kemp aims to honor her stepmother’s legacy through her marathon participation, ensuring continued support for families experiencing similar challenges.
