Primary Eyecare Services Team Raise a Staggering £7,000 for SeeAbility at the 2024 London Marathon
4 July 2024
We are thrilled to announce that the Primary Eyecare Services running squad has raised an incredible £7,052 for SeeAbility through their participation in the 2024 London Marathon.
Our runners’ contributions made up a substantial ten per cent of the £70,000 raised by a record-breaking 40 marathon participants for the charity SeeAbility, who focus on supporting individuals with learning disabilities experiencing sight loss.
As the team ran the 26.2 mile course, they were enthusiastically cheered on by employees of Primary Eyecare Services who travelled from all corners of the UK to support on the day.
We spoke to our runners about their reflections on the day, which you can read below.
Runner Reflections
Primary Eyecare Services Data Analytics Manager, Vijay Balaji (pictured above), expressed his gratitude for being able to take part saying:
“A huge thanks to Primary Eyecare Services and SeeAbility for the opportunity to tackle the London Marathon, all for an incredible cause. It was a whirlwind of mental and physical challenges, surpassing my expectations. Immense gratitude to the cheering spectators and our amazing team who came to support us in London all the way from Manchester. I can’t wait to lace up for more marathons in the future!”
Vijay’s enthusiasm and determination were palpable as he recounted the journey from start to finish. The support from the crowd and camaraderie among the runners created an unforgettable experience.
Image showing Primary Eyecare Services’ Data Analytics Manager, Vijay Balaji under Big Ben at the 2024 London Marathon.
Helen McKrell, Optometrist and Clinical Lead here at Primary Eyecare Services, reminisced on the day with positivity.
“What an amazing day! The London Marathon has always been on my bucket list of something I wanted to do, and I am thrilled I was able to do it as part of the Primary Eyecare Services team to help raise money for SeeAbility. The whole day was such a rollercoaster of emotions but as I crossed the finish line, I just felt so privileged to have taken part. I would never have been able to finish without the amazing support from the spectators, the volunteers, the team who attended with my friends and family cheering me on. The highlight of the whole experience for me was learning about the reasons the runners I came across were taking part and seeing people’s faces light up with such joy as they saw their loved ones in the crowd.”
Helen’s reflections capture the emotional highs and lows of the marathon. Her determination to complete a personal goal while supporting a great cause is truly inspiring.
Speaking about her first marathon experience, Clinical Lead Dr. Amy Hughes, commented:
“London 2024 was an amazing first marathon experience, it felt like the whole of London was out in support and the atmosphere was incredible. I will remember the feeling of running over Tower Bridge (and the finish line!) forever. I feel honoured to have been part of such an incredible PES team, both runners and supporters, and to have helped raise funds for the incredible work for SeeAbility.”
Amy’s account emphasises the monumental aspects of the marathon, from iconic landmarks to the overwhelming support from the crowd. Her sense of achievement and pride in being part of the running team underscores the collective effort of everyone involved.
Finance Director, Sam Carr spoke about how the tough mental and physical challenge was all worthwhile in the end.
“This was my first marathon, and I’m so happy I did it in London. While it was a tough mental and physical challenge – the atmosphere, spectators, and our own cheer squad were amazing throughout, and really helped me through it. It’s a day I’ll never forget.”
Sam’s reflection highlights the resilience and determination required to complete such a demanding event. The encouragement from the cheer squad and the vibrant atmosphere were crucial in helping him push through the challenging moments.
We are extremely proud of our team and are grateful for all the support received. Thank you to everyone who donated and cheered the team on! Your contributions will make a significant impact on the lives of those with sight loss and learning disabilities.