Why I'm running the London Marathon for Saint Francis Hospice

I grew up in a sporty family, so my memories growing up were of my parents taking me to football games, gymnastics competitions, and athletics tracks. Dad was a basketball player, and my Mum played handball very seriously, so I’ve always been interested in keeping active. However, long-distance running didn’t "click" for me until university, ironically, after years of insisting that I hated it.

I dipped in and out of running through my early twenties, but over the last three years it has truly become part of who I am. I’m now the captain of my work run club, a regular at parkrun, and I love signing up for races both around the UK and abroad.

My first marathon was Madrid in 2025. I ran 3:22:54, and I genuinely loved every second. I couldn’t stop smiling, it was pure joy and one of my proudest moments. My good friend Reece encouraged me to apply for a Good for Age place for London, and after him chasing me daily, I finally sent the application on the last day. I’m so glad I did, because running the London Marathon feels incredibly special, especially as it’s my home city.

Tamara with her sister Patricia and Mum Maria.

What running means to me now 

Running has shaped me in ways I never expected. It’s given me structure when life feels uncertain, discipline when my motivation is low, and resilience I didn’t realise I was building. Running is where I think, process, and reset. I’ve worked through some of my hardest thoughts during runs and learned how to sit with discomfort rather than avoid it. Some days I feel strong; other days it’s a battle, but every run reminds me that progress doesn’t have to be perfect. 

Running is also where some of my closest friendships have grown. I love running with others, though I’m usually the one doing most of the talking! Sharing miles, stories, and laughter has created connections I really treasure.

Training for the London Marathon  

Training for my second marathon has been tougher than my first. This time I started on 60km weeks, about 20km more than before, but the real challenge has been emotional. I’m training while navigating the news that my mum’s cancer has spread, and that has changed everything. 

Running has become more than training; it’s my way of staying grounded and coping. This marathon isn’t about a time goal anymore. It’s about strength, perspective, and showing up even when life feels heavy.

My mum: my role model, my strength 

My mum is an absolute icon - Spanish, fabulous, hilarious, strong, brave, resilient. I’m incredibly lucky she’s my role model. She was first diagnosed with cancer when I was 13 (I’m 29 now), so we’ve lived with this for a long time. Watching her face it again and again has shown me what real strength looks like: quiet, steady, relentless. 

Even on her hardest days, she brings love and laughter into our home. Everything I bring into my running, especially my resilience, comes from her.

How Saint Francis Hospice came into our lives 

We were referred to Saint Francis Hospice by the palliative nursing team at my mum’s hospital, who explained what support they could offer. At a time when everything felt overwhelming, being guided toward that additional layer of care made a huge difference. 

For my mum, the biggest comfort is simply knowing the hospice team is there. She’s especially appreciated their help with managing pain and symptoms, as well as their complementary therapies, which have brought moments of calm and relief. 

They’ve supported us as a family too, visiting us at home, helping us understand what’s available, offering medication and equipment before we even think to ask. Emotionally, they’ve helped us feel less alone. Having compassionate, experienced people to turn to brings so much comfort.

Why I’m running the London Marathon for Saint Francis Hospice 

Running London through a Good for Age place already felt like a huge privilege, but I wanted this race to stand for something more. I asked my mum which charity she would like me to run for, and she immediately said Saint Francis Hospice. 

Dedicating this marathon to her, and to the hospice that supports her, turns every mile into something meaningful. It allows me to take something physically challenging and transform it into support for other families facing what we’re facing. If my race helps the hospice continue providing comfort, guidance, and care to families in need, then every step is worth it.

Tamara McCallum running

Finding purpose on the hardest days

Some training days are physically tough, but emotionally, things can feel even heavier. Running for the hospice gives every run a deeper purpose. It reminds me this journey is about more than times or medals, it’s about people, families, and moments that matter. 

When I think about the care Saint Francis Hospice brings to families like mine, it puts my temporary discomfort into perspective. The tired legs, early mornings, and rainy long runs feel small compared to what others endure. And when I need strength, I think of my mum and how fiercely she’s fought for so many years.

My hope for my fundraising 

I hope my fundraising helps families feel supported, cared for, and less alone during one of the hardest times of their lives. When someone you love is seriously ill, that support means everything. If my miles help even one family, it will all have been worth it.

Looking ahead to race day 

On race day, I want to run a race I’m proud of, to stay strong, present, and connected to why I’m running. Of course I have a time goal, but what matters most is crossing the finish line knowing I gave everything. 

I’m most looking forward to the atmosphere in London and seeing my friends and family at the finish. I know it will be emotional, thinking about my mum and the hospice, but I also know those emotions will carry me through.