Runner completes 200th marathon for cat charity
"You don’t know what you can do till you try.”- Emma Challis.
A charity runner has reached a milestone, as she finishes her 200th marathon in aid of Cats Protection.
Emma Challis, from Shepton Mallet, ran the marathon from Salisbury to Winchester in aid of the feline welfare charity. The former veterinary nurse had to overcome serious health problems, including blood clots, to complete the marathon.
Ms Challis started running long distance in 2013, as a way to strengthen her muscles after two serious accidents. In 1997, Emma damaged her spine in a car accident. Then, in 2007, she fractured her pelvis after falling down the stairs.
In 2016 she was diagnosed with a long-standing blood clotting condition, which had been causing her pain for many years. A few days after completing her 28th marathon she was told she had multiple prominent clots in her lungs.
She also suffers from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), a condition which was worsened by the Covid lockdowns.
Despite these challenges, Ms Challis has completed ultra-marathons and full-distance triathlons. Last year, she ran over 1,500 miles.
Her most recent marathon saw her raise money and awareness for Cats Protection, a charity that she has close links to. Ms Challis rehabilitates and fosters cats for Cats Protections’ Glastonbury and Wells branch, and is currently caring for her 102nd cat, called Kevin.
Emma Challis said: “I really enjoy my sports events and get such pleasure from doing them - I feel amazing before, during and after,”
“As it’s a social activity, I’ve made many super friends. I also feel very lucky and fortunate to be able to take part in these events considering the damage my body received from developing blood clots. Although the damage is permanent, I manage ok and benefit in many ways from doing so much exercise.”
She continued: “I never thought I could achieve any of this because of my health problems but I refuse to let life get me down,
“You don’t know what you can do till you try.”
Image © Cats Protection
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
