We’re absolutely delighted to have secured our 2nd ever charity place in the 2020 London Marathon. Following an application process to find our Pharmacist Support representative for this much sought after place, we’re thrilled to announce our 2020 charity runner – Anne Cawdron!

Anne has been a qualified pharmacist for almost 40 years and although she is planning to retire at the end of this year she’s not looking to slow down just yet. Instead she’s set herself a new challenge – to take on the gruelling 26 1/2 mile circuit of the Virgin Money London Marathon – also by coincidence celebrating it’s 40th year!  Anne is doing all of this to raise valuable funds for Pharmacist Support. So we caught up with her to find out more!

Tell us a little about yourself.

I have loved being a pharmacist, feeling part of a  local community, available as a source of healthcare advice, providing an understanding ear and, at times, a shoulder to cry on.

I have been privileged to know and work with lots of local pharmacists in a profession where we can often feel quite isolated.  For many years I was involved with the local Halifax branch of the RPSGB (secretary for quite a few) and arranged professional and social meetings for local pharmacists as well as attending meetings in London and getting to know some of the great and good in pharmacy.

I have worked for multiples (large and small) and independent pharmacies; including 7 years as a contractor.  I have been a representative for both multiple and independent contractors on the West Yorkshire Local Pharmaceutical Committee.

Aside from pharmacy I’ve been married for 36 years and have two grown up sons.  My interests include travel (which I hope to do more of) running, walking and spending time with friends and family.

Why did you decide to become a Pharmacist Support Fundraising Hero?

Almost 20 years ago I received invaluable help from Pharmacist Support (called the Benevolent Fund at the time).  Without that help I would never have achieved any of the things I have in both my professional and personal life.  I always said that I would like to “give back” when I had the opportunity.  Since stopping full time work in 2017, I have been privileged to volunteer with Pharmacist Support.  Seeing what the charity does at close hand inspires me to be a Fundraising Hero so other pharmacists and their families may be able to benefit from the kind of help that was given to me.

What Hero Fundraising activities do you have planned?

I intend to run (Slowly) the Virgin Money London Marathon 2020 and have pledged to raise £2000 for Pharmacist Support.

I plan to raise sponsorship, and awareness of Pharmacist Support by attending events organised for local Community Pharmacists by CPWY (Community Pharmacy West Yorkshire), including their annual symposium on Sunday March 15th 2020.

I intend to write an article for the pharmaceutical journals (& possibly a training blog!) & will hold bake sales and raffles at events. I may also organise a social event such as a quiz.

Why is the charity important to you?

Pharmacists in all sectors are under unprecedented stress. I believe it’s important that there is an organisation where pharmacists can go for advice and assistance that understands those pressures and the role of the pharmacist.

When I needed help it was there for me. I’d hate to think that help was no longer available for other pharmacists in the future that might need it.

Why do you think others should join the Pharmacist Support Fundraising Hero Team?

No-one knows what the future holds, it may be yourself that needs help or it may be another pharmacist less fortunate than you!  So please, I urge you to get involved and do what you can to support the charity.

Anne is taking on the iconic Virgin Money London Marathon on Sunday 26th April 2020.  You can support and donate to her fundraising page here.