London Marathon Achievers: Local Runners Raise £3,000 for Popham Kidney Support
Simon Treharne (Left) and Andrew Golley (Right) presenting the cheque of £3000 to Popham Kidney Support.
This year, Popham Kidney Support, based in Swansea, witnessed two of its committed runners, Andrew Golley and Simon Treharne from the ‘Paul Popham Running Club‘, conquer the London Marathon in support of the organisation. Their efforts raised a commendable £3,000 for Popham Kidney Support, providing essential aid to those affected by kidney disease in Wales.
Popham Kidney Support was established in March 2013, originally named ‘The Paul Popham Fund, Renal Support Wales’, following the passing of Paul Popham, father of current CEO Joanne Popham. Under Joanne’s leadership, the charity continues to honour Paul Popham’s legacy, providing vital support and raising awareness for those affected by kidney disease and kidney cancer. In its eleventh year, the charity has surpassed £1 million in fundraising and has seen substantial growth, providing assistance to over 3,000 individuals last year alone.
Both runners have a personal connection to the charity, making their fundraising efforts even more meaningful.
The London Marathon marked a major milestone for Andrew, an experienced marathon runner, while serving as an unforgettable first marathon experience for Simon.
Speaking on the event, Simon Treharne said:
“The support from start to finish was awesome! It certainly drove me on over the last few miles when it started to feel tough. Seeing people being pushed round the course in wheelchairs and the smiles on their faces was truly inspiring. The delight on runners and spectators’ faces when they saw their friends and relatives put a smile on my face too.
“This was by far the biggest challenge I had set myself – one I thoroughly enjoyed, all the way through my training to race day! Through the generosity of my family and friends, a healthy sum was raised for Popham Kidney Support too! I would do it all again, as I have realised that if you have the right mindset and commitment to achieve something, you can do it!”
Andrew Golley said:
“I really enjoyed the London Marathon – it was the best running experience I’ve had to date! Raising some funds for Popham Kidney Support was a bonus too. Everyone’s generosity was amazing. Thanks to all the people that sponsored me and my fellow marathoners from the club. And thank you to my wife, Monique, who had to put up with the moans and groans for months!”
Joanne Popham, CEO of Popham Kidney Support, said:
“What Simon and Andrew have accomplished for our charity is truly remarkable. Not only have they conquered an immense challenge, but they’ve also raised crucial funds for Popham Kidney Support, enabling us to extend our vital services to those affected by kidney disease throughout Wales.
“As Chair and a member of the Paul Popham Running Club myself, I understand the dedication and training required for these events. We are incredibly grateful to Simon and Andrew – we congratulate them on their incredible achievement!”
The funds raised by Andrew and Simon are part of the collective £7,000 raised by the Paul Popham Running Club, which had four runners participating in the London Marathon, supporting various charities.