Staff story
Chris Browne really puts in the effort
In 2000, Chris Browne, then service manager for one of United Response’s London services, cautiously set off on his first London Marathon.
Little did he know that in the next seven years he would run another seven marathons, even taking him to New York – and all to help raise money for United Response!
Chris, now the area manager for London West, has managed to haul in more than £15,000! Not bad for a man who swears every race will be his last by the time the swollen joints kick in!
"I always find myself saying 'no way!' when asked if I'll run another marathon – but by the time Autumn comes around and I’ve forgotten the physical pain, I always seem to change my mind!"
Chris believes running in such long-distance events is actually something he fell into by accident: "The reason I started entering marathons, was because it was the only sport I could really see myself committing to. Although sport has always been massive in my life, I’m someone who needs to have a goal. And preparing for a marathon takes dedication. You have to build running into the very fabric of your life, so you need to have friends and family who will support you."
Over the years, Chris has run to raise funds for the little extras in life that really make a difference to the people we support. Previous efforts have seen him secure dedicated holidays for people who want to get away, as well as new gardening equipment so people can make the most of their outdoor spaces. This year, Chris raised nearly £2,000 to help make a sensory garden in Richmond. "The garden at the lucky house will be adapted with some sensory influences."
Chris says, "It will be more accessible by using the space more effectively. Added to this we will be introducing areas that focus on smells, shapes, textures and colours." Raising the money for each of Chris’s marathons has almost been as exhausting as the racing itself, and Chris is adamant that he could not do it alone.
"I rely on the people at the services I’m running for to make a collective effort to bring in the cash. It usually results in a genuine boost of team spirit, as staff, friends and families pull together to do their bit."
His tips include "Get decent trainers! And concentrate on building up the muscle around your knees, as that’s where injuries are most likely to occur. You need to be safe."