Become a Friend of Sue Ryder with a regular donation and be part of something very special.
Running 1,000 miles inspired by mum - David's story
24 Mar 2025
David Clyde, a 57-year-old ultrarunner from Thatcham, is gearing up to take on the challenge of his life - running 1,000 miles from Land's End to John O'Groats in just five weeks. David’s journey is driven by the exceptional care his mum received at Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice in Reading.
What motivates me to run
I got into running with half and full marathons in the mid-2000s. In 2019, I jumped into ultrarunning with a 100km race, diving in with both feet. Running from Land's End to John O'Groats was always one of the ultimate challenges I fancied. While I considered cycling it, I realised I wasn't much of a cyclist, so I decided to run it!
Unfortunately, my dad, John, passed away in November 2021, which made me think life is too short and you must do things when you can.
Sue Ryder's excellent care
The following year, my mum got ill with cancer and was cared for by Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice for three months before passing away in December. Seeing her pain at home compared to the comfort and care she received at Sue Ryder was inspiring and I knew I wanted to give back and raise vital funds for the hospice.
Sue Ryder is a charity that provides excellent care. My mum, Joan, had her own comfortable room, and the medical care was top-notch. Everyone there was lovely and made us cups of tea. The end-of-life care they provided was as pleasant as a situation like that can be. Seeing my mum in a supportive environment while she was battling cancer made a huge difference. The staff at Sue Ryder were fantastic, creating a comforting environment for her and our family.
Sue Ryder were fantastic, creating a comforting environment for her and our family.
My journey to 1,000 miles
Last year, I did the Ultra Tour of Arran, a two-day event covering 60 miles. I also completed 'The Wall’ - a 70-mile race from Carlisle to Gateshead. I have been battling a few injuries along the way - I often joke that the issues between my hip and my toe are the least of my problems when faced with 1,000 miles to run!
Fundraising is a significant motivator, knowing that I'm committed to this cause. Running is also an excellent stress reliever, it helps with mental health, providing a release and focus. When you're out running, you're concentrated on reaching the next goal.
Running is also an excellent stress reliever, it helps with mental health, providing a release and focus.
Personally, I want the satisfaction of completing this challenge and making connections with others along the way. For Sue Ryder, I am aiming to raise £5,000. Knowing I am able to give back to a charity that helped my family and me is a great feeling, and I hope through this challenge I will also inspire others to achieve their goals.
David's 1,000 mile journey will begin on 31 May, and David hopes that the challenge will not only push his physical and mental limits, but also to make a significant impact on the lives of those in need through his support of Sue Ryder.
Losing your mother or father can be an incredibly painful experience and you may go through a range of emotions, like shock, regret and anger after their death.
