Spire Harpenden team run through the night for Crohn’s and Colitis UK.

On Thursday 17 October, a team of Spire Harpenden staff and consultants, along with their friends and family took on the Run the Night 10k challenge through London Docklands to raise vital funds for Crohn’s and Colitis UK.

A very special colleague, Anne Swanston, has dedicated the past 12 years to raising money and awareness for the charity, following the loss of her husband Ian. Anne’s colleagues wanted to support her and the charity by taking on the 10k run.

Anne Swanston said: "I am so pleased that so many of the team at Spire Harpenden committed to take part in Run the Night! The staff and management at the hospital are always so supportive of my events, it is great to see so many of them ready and willing to get involved in an event organised by the charity."

The night began with a trip from the hospital to Studio 338, London. There was a mix of nerves and excitement within the team and morale was high. Following an hour and a half journey of beautiful sunshine, in true English style, the team arrived to a thunderous downpour of rain. Some team photos were taken (as shown below) and it wasn’t long before the team set out on their run.

Nicola Dann, Head of Business Development, took part in the race and said: “I am so proud of everyone who joined our Spire Harpenden Run the Night team. This was a difficult, personal challenge for most of us, as we are not runners. The efforts that our consultants, colleagues, friends and family undertook to train, prepare and attend were phenomenal. Although it was tough, the atmosphere and team spirit was amazing and we were so inspired to do our very best for everyone who kindly supported and sponsored Crohn’s and Colitis UK. We look forward to Run the Night 2020!”

The race included some challenging moments. Discussing the trickiest parts, Nicola Dann added: "running through the Greenwich tunnel, which had a total of 187 steps (was tricky) and you had to do this twice. Also dodging pedestrians along busy London streets and running through a pitch black pig farm (was challenging), but it was a stunning route running along the River Thames and seeing London in all its glory shining brightly on a late October evening.

"Our team were all very happy with their times, meeting at the end for a well-earned beer. The journey home began with the team munching their way through sandwiches pre-made by our wonderful chef and discussing stories from the route.

"It was an incredible effort by a fantastic team, and to top it off they smashed their target, raising £1,240 for a wonderful charity."

If you, or a loved one are suffering with stomach problems, be sure to see one of our Consultant Gastroenterologists to help get diagnosis and your life back on track. Call 01582 788 412 today to speak to our self-funding team.