GNR 2024: Janice’s blog

As the countdown to Great North Run 2024 begins, we’re catching up with Team Bright – the runners who take on the challenge for Bright Northumbria Healthcare Charity.

We caught up with Janice, a member of staff within Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, this is what she had to say:

Hi everyone, I’m Janice Stewart. I work as Volunteer shop support in the wonderful Northumbria Volunteer Service shop at NSECH. I decided to take part in the Great North Run 2024, raising money for Bright Northumbria Healthcare Charity.

I wanted to give something back as they help so many patients and staff and make such a difference in brightening up people’s day.

I’ve been running for about 14 years now doing different distances and competing in races including the GNR and London Marathon. I’ve been very lucky as it’s Great North Run number 11 for me.

I’m very passionate about running because it’s a great way to keep fit and healthy and it’s an ideal way for people to meet other runners and make friends for life, like what I’ve done through my love for running. I highly encourage anyone to give it a go by starting off by doing couch to 5K.

My top tips for any first timer doing the GNR is to pace yourself, eat properly and hydrate well and just enjoy every step – it’s the best half marathon ever!

My training is going well, though it doesn’t get any easier, but I know the crowds and the support from spectators around the route will help massively.

My advice to anyone would be to try to relax and enjoy every mile and remember when it gets tough that you are all amazing for running the GNR and raising so much money for your chosen charities.