Daisy’s marathon effort to help save Hampstead centre for the elderly
An incredible vibe overtook the capital on Sunday (April 22) as thousands of people including Ham&High runner Daisy Jestico completed the London Marathon for good causes.
Daisy ran on behalf of the Ham&High and Age UK Camden to help save Henderson Court centre for the elderly in Hampstead, which offers a host of invaluable activities for over 60s and has been threatened with closure.
The 28-year-old from Greenwich, a first-time marathon runner, completed the gruelling course in 4hrs 27minutes - the same time as singer and actor Will Young.
Speaking yesterday (Monday, April 23), she said: “I feel really sore and I’m struggling to walk today. Yesterday the crowds kept me going. It was encouraging. Everyone wants you to succeed. It’s an incredible vibe.”
Daisy has so far raised �1,700 for Henderson Court in Fitzjohn’s Avenue and is aiming for a target of �3,000.
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Also running was 32-year-old cancer survivor Evie Lemos of Chalk Farm Road, Chalk Farm.
The feat was all the more remarkable as eight years ago, doctors told Evie they might have to amputate her leg.
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The mother-of-one suffered muscle cancer in her left thigh and needed to have a “big chunk” surgically removed.
She said: “I have always wanted to do it. When I was in hospital I thought I might never walk or run again.
“I had to wait five years until I was out of remission and then another three years as I got pregnant.
“It was amazing. Absolutely incredible. It was worth the pain.”
Fay Sanders, 33 of Northwood Road, Highgate, ran the marathon with her fiance Oriol Margo, after having previously completed the Athens and Barcelona marathons.
She said: “It was harder than I expected. The heat and sheer volume of runners made it difficult.
“However, it’s such an amazing event. So many people were lining the streets.”
Hampstead Garden Suburb estate agent Jonathan Barr, 52, and his wife Lauren, 47, of Finchley, ran the race as well as celebrating their 22nd wedding anniversary.
Around 37,500 people participated in the 32nd Virgin London Marathon ranging from amateurs to professional athletes.
To sponsor Daisy and support Henderson Court, visit http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/daisyjestico.
