Giving back to charity: an interview with Big Hand’s very own Sophie Seddon
Charities are part of the backbone of our society. They help those who need it most and are fueled by the selfless acts of many kind and generous people out there. From volunteering at a charity shop to donating money where you can, there are plenty of ways you can give back.
Today, we’re talking to Marketing Manager Sophie Seddon about what she’s been doing for Macmillan Cancer Support. The lockdown hasn’t even been stopping her!
About Macmillan Cancer Support
Before the interview, let’s take this opportunity to talk about the wonderful work Macmillan does. As a cancer support charity, they are there to help you through the difficult journey from start to finish. They have a wealth of resources and tools you can use to make your experience a more comfortable one.
It isn’t just emotional support, though. They provide physical and financial support to guide you through the rollercoaster that is cancer. Countless patients and their families have benefited from the crucial service Macmillan provides. Here’s what it all means to Sophie.
Hi, Sophie. Thanks for taking the time to sit down and talk about your charity work with Macmillan Cancer Support. Just give us a rundown of what you’ve been doing recently.
One of my friends from a networking group mentioned that she had heard about the challenge of running 5km every day in May for charity. I began running 2 years ago and was now looking for a way to challenge myself and my running skills to see how I would do.
I was scheduled to do a Macmillan Mighty Hike this month (hiking a marathon in the Lake District), but due to COVID-19, it was postponed. So I thought the running would be a nice alternative challenge I could do while distancing.
Wow, sounds like a lot of work! How much did you run in the end?
I did a minimum of 5km every day in May and then did a half marathon to finish off on the 31st. In total, I ran 252km.
That sounds like dedication! How come you chose Macmillan?
Macmillan provides such a necessary service for many people and lots of families are affected by cancer. Without the scheduled fundraising activities going ahead, the charities are suffering from lack of funds.
That’s very true. How did you raise money for it?
For the running, I just posted a picture of myself and routes after every run on social media so people could keep up with me. I made a couple of videos along the way, thanking people and encouraging more donations.
Is there a sense of community behind these runs?
A lot of my friends and family got involved and a few of my neighbours came out to see me across the finish line. The Mighty Hike has a massive community behind it with everyone in a Facebook group sharing tips. Pre-lockdown, they were organising practice walks with people in their local areas.
Then, of course, we had this whole pandemic. How did that change plans for you?
The Mighty Hike has a new date scheduled in September 2020. Alternatively, some have transferred to next year.
So when is the next one?
12th September 2020.
That’s good to know! I’m sure it’s made some amazing memories for you.
Certainly. My mum made a finishing line outside the house and all the neighbours came out to see me finish. Halfway through the month, I was starting to get a few twinges in my knee and back and I thought I might not be able to finish. But after many hours of stretching, I managed to get back to it and that was a great feeling, knowing that I could finish.
Well congratulations, Sophie. That’s an amazing story. How much did you raise?
I’m currently at £990 (plus Gift Aid). Someone has also promised to give me £20 when I next see him… hopefully soon!
I think we all hope so soon. A big thanks to Sophie for her time today. If you want to help Sophie raise even more money for Macmillan Cancer Support, you can follow the link here and give what you can.
On behalf of all the Big Hand team, we want to extend a huge congratulations to Sophie for her hard work throughout May. If you want to know more about who we are as a business, feel free to visit our website or call us on 0161 327 2911.
