Hartlepool community pharmacist Dr Lottie Ayres Nicholson completed 2022’s Great North Run to raise money for North Tees and Hartlepool Together.
Taking on 13.1 miles in South Shields, she raised over £300 for the maternity services department.
Motivated by her son’s birth, 39-year-old Lottie was keen to give back to those who supported her through this emotional time.
Having Rudy six years ago was a tough experience but the North Tees and Hartlepool team were amazing. To cut a long story short, my birth didn’t go to our original plan. I ended up in an emergency C-section.
Dr Lottie Ayres Nicholson
“The team were so calm and comforting; a nurse even held my hand and talked me through the process. I found their birth reflection service extremely helpful for working me through this traumatic experience. They took the time to help me understand why Rudy’s birth happened and helped me to own my story.
“I have a huge amount of respect for the department and the passion that they hold so I chose to undertake Great North Run to raise awareness of the amazing things that they do.”
Lottie’s advice for runners
This was not Lottie’s first Great North Run experience. In 2018, she took part in the event to raise money for a mental health charity after her friend died by suicide.
Running has helped her to process these events, likening exercise with friends as a “therapy session”. It has become a crucial part of her regular mental and physical wellbeing.
Lottie continued: “I would encourage anyone to take part in the Great North Run.
“The best way to enjoy the magic of the day is to fully immerse yourself in it. Eat the ice pops, high five the supporters and breathe in every moment – even the tough ones.
“The clapping, cheering and energy is indescribable and it really does give you the extra strength to reach the finish line.”
Join the Great North Run
North Tees and Hartlepool Together currently has spaces available for Great North Run 2023. You have to be aged over 17 on the day of event to participate.
Fundraising efforts are bespoke to you. As well as University Hospital of Hartlepool, you can also choose to support the Trust’s community services at Peterlee Community Hospital or for a specific hospital department.
Find out more about the Trust’s charity