Graduate student Ella (DPhil in Genomic Medicine and Statistics), ran her first marathon this Easter vacation alongside her mum, combining a personal challenge with a cause close to home. Their decision to support Alzheimer’s Society builds on earlier fundraising efforts inspired by Ella’s grandmother’s diagnosis with frontotemporal dementia. Ella tells us more.
What inspired you to take on a marathon in support of this charity?
My mum and I previously fundraised for Alzheimer’s Society back in 2024, when we ran six runs in six months and finished off by running the Great North Run together, a half-marathon. We enjoyed the experience so much that we decided to take on the challenge of running a full marathon together, too!
We initially chose to support Alzheimer’s Society after my Nana was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia. The work they do with those affected by dementia is invaluable, and they also fund research aimed at finding effective treatments. It feels even more important to be supporting them now that I’ve started a DPhil focused on neurodegenerative disease research.
How have you balanced marathon training with the demands of your course?
Marathon training while working full-time in a lab has meant lots of late-night runs in the dark. I’ve gotten quite good at finding routes with the best streetlights in Oxford!
Do you have a favourite running route in Oxford, and what makes it special?
When it isn’t completely flooded (which I’m beginning to realise is a rare occurrence), I love running from Venneit Close up towards Port Meadow along the Thames Path. It’s nice to pretend you’re out in the countryside, despite still being so close to the city centre.
What advice would you give to someone considering training for their first marathon?
I’m no expert, as this is also my first marathon, but I would definitely recommend following a training plan that includes strength training (your joints will thank you). Plus, don’t underestimate the power of a bit of sugar on a long run – I’ve always got a few jelly beans in my pocket.
What’s your favourite running track when you need a boost?
Hypersonic Missiles by Sam Fender always makes me speed up a little bit.
