Erin Charles-Haskins - Three Reasons to Run the London Marathon
Erin Charles-Haskins has three powerful reasons to take on the iconic London Marathon on Sunday 27th April for Saint Francis Hospice.
Erin will be running in memory of her great uncle Ray and auntie Debbie, and also her grandad John Charles, who played for West Ham United and was the first black player to represent England at Under-18 and any level within the National Team - they were all cared for by the charity. This is Erin’s story...
John Charles in action for West Ham United
It’s a privilege to say I'll be running the London Marathon 2025 for Saint Francis Hospice in memory of my auntie Debbie, great uncle Ray and grandad John, and following in the footsteps of my dad, Daniel Haskins who ran the London Marathon for the hospice in 2004.
Early last year when I initially put my application in to run for Saint Francis Hospice, I was mainly running in memory of my lovely uncle Ray who passed away in 2023 and grandad John, who passed away in 2002.
Erin with her Uncle Ray
I was very young at the time, but I used to come to the hospice to see my Grandad with my mum. Both Grandad and Great Uncle Ray received such loving care by all the staff, and they were also so supportive of my family who were going through such a devasting time.
Last summer, a few weeks after I found out I got a place to run for Saint Francis Hospice, we received the tragic news that my auntie Debbie had been diagnosed with cancer, and in September she sadly passed away.
The Hospice at Home team visited every day to assist with Debbie's care during the short time she had at home after being diagnosed.
Erin's Grandad John Charles with Aunt Debbie
I now want to give back as much as I can to this incredible charity who have done so much for my family. I know the hospice relies on donations to run its services and this has given me even more motivation to run. I recently organised a netball tournament which raised over £500. I’ve reached my original target and I’m almost at my new target of £3,250!
My training has gone well and I’m so excited for the day. The London Marathon is just so special. Every time I think about running it, I feel so emotional.
Saint Francis Hospice is the only charity I would want to run my first marathon for, and all the connections to the charity will help push me through the 26.2 miles. I have no doubt that I will finish it and I know all my family and friends will be there to support me on such an unforgettable day.
