Louise Roberts, 44 of Warwickshire has told us what Virtual Runner means to her and how losing weight may well have saved her life.
Almost 4 years ago I lost my Mam suddenly and my world was turned upside down. I had seen a friend of mine had started running and I thought I’d give it a go. I’ve never looked back. It helped me cope with my grief so much. As my confidence grew a little and running improved I entered a couple of events, loved receiving the bling, then saw people chatting about virtual races so I looked into it and found Virtual Runner UK! Addicted or what!
My running started to improve as I became motivated to get out there when it was convenient for me, help the race charities and earn my bling. I decided to try to lose some weight to improve my running further and get myself really fit. My number one goal was to do the Great North Run!! I joined a local slimming group and healthy eating, combined with Virtual Runner was the recipe for success! I dropped 4.5 stone in about 10 months! My times and distances improved I felt amazing then something happened.
I found a lump in my breast and was diagnosed with breast cancer. I really do believe that my running, along side my healthy eating, which made the weight literally drop off me has saved my life. I may never have found the lump if I hadn’t lost weight and well….. I can’t even think about the what ifs.
I am almost at the end of my chemotherapy now, following a mastectomy and numerous scans and still have radiotherapy to go. Apart from after the surgery, I have never stopped running and earning my Virtual Runner bling. Yes I am slower, I can’t go as far, but I walk/run! I’m still out there and the support that I have received from the Facebook group when I’ve posted my runs has been truly overwhelming. I really do believe Virtual Runner UK has played a big part in saving my life! The motivation to get out there and earn those fantastic medals, see yourself improving and know you are helping many worth while charities is amazing.
So a huge thank you to Susan for creating this wonderful family and for helping me be where I am today! I absolutely love being a Virtual Runner and The Great North Run 2018 is on!!!!