Karen’s putting her best foot forward for Pharmacist Support
This year, pharmacist Karen Howlett is lacing up her running shoes to take on not one, but two incredible endurance events in support of Pharmacist Support. After what she describes as a tumultuous start to 2025, Karen is channelling her energy into raising awareness and vital funds for the profession’s independent charity.
Karen, a hospital and primary care pharmacist based in Suffolk, has turned to running over the years as a way to manage stress. Now, she’s using her passion for the outdoors—and her incredible resilience—to give something back.
Karen’s challenges
Her first challenge is Race to the King (RTTK), a 100km non-stop trail event across the South Downs on 15–16 June. Later this year, she’ll also run the Loch Ness Marathon, widely considered one of the most scenic marathons in the UK.
“RTTK is a slog, and this year my training hasn’t been what it would normally be. But fundraising for Pharmacist Support will be what keeps me going through the tough parts of the night.”
She adds, “Loch Ness will be more about the determination to get through the marathon training, but the day itself should be a joy—if I train right. Maybe I’ll even see Nessie!”
Drawing on personal experience
Karen’s connection to the charity runs deeper than professional admiration. She recently reached out for support herself after facing redundancy, a new diagnosis of type 2 diabetes, and a family health crisis all in the same year.
“The sessions I had with my Listening Friend helped me put some perspective on things and challenge some of the thinking I had slipped into. I came away more positive and with a holistic plan for myself, which will hopefully get me back into work very soon.”
“Knowing that you’re speaking to someone who understands pharmacy without having to explain the work situation meant that the sessions were really productive and motivating.”
Follow her journey
Karen will be sharing her journey on Instagram (@karenhowlettrx), posting updates from checkpoints throughout Race to the King and sharing training progress in the run-up to Loch Ness. She’ll also be trackable during RTTK through the event website.
You can show your support by donating to her fundraising page:
Visit Karen’s fundraising page
Karen’s advice for aspiring fundraisers
“As pharmacists we tend towards perfectionism. But what I learned on the last RTTK is that the journey up to the peak is often more interesting and beautiful than the view from the top. When thinking about an event or fundraising, worry less about it being perfect. Take the first step, get some support, and have some fun finding out where your limits actually are.”
We’re incredibly grateful to Karen for her strength, generosity, and commitment to supporting the pharmacy family. We’ll be cheering her on every step of the way and hope you do too!
