GNR 2025: A blog by Fadwa

We spoke with one of our incredible staff members who is taking on the Great North Run for us this year.

Fadwa Alesheh is a senior clinical pharmacist in Northumbria and has never been much of a runner, but she has decided that she is up for the challenge!

That challenge is currently proving worthwhile, as she’s already smashed her fundraising target!

Team Bright wishes Fadwa the best of luck in her training. Read what she had to say below…

1. What inspired you to take on the Great North Run, especially as someone who doesn’t usually run?

Honestly, it started as a bit of a personal challenge. I’ve never been a runner, so the idea of doing something completely out of my comfort zone really appealed to me. The Great North Run is such an iconic event with an amazing atmosphere – I thought, why not give it a go and do something that scares me a little?

2. Why did you choose to fundraise for Bright, and what does the charity mean to you?

Bright Northumbria does fantastic work supporting patients and NHS staff in the North East. It feels good to give something back to a community that has supported so many people through difficult times. Knowing the funds go toward improving patient care really motivated me to run for them.

3. You’ve already hit your £200 target – how did you go about it, and how did it feel to reach that milestone?

I shared my story and fundraising page on social media and talked to friends and family about what I was doing. I was honestly overwhelmed by the support – it was a great reminder of how generous people can be. Hitting that target gave me a real boost, both emotionally and in my training!

4. What’s been the toughest part of preparing for your first half marathon – and what’s kept you going?

Getting into a regular training routine was tough, especially on the days when motivation was low or the weather was awful. But I kept reminding myself why I was doing this. Thinking about the charity, the people supporting me, and the end goal helped me push through.

5. How have friends, family, or colleagues reacted to your challenge?

Mostly surprise! A lot of people know I’m not a natural runner, so their reactions have been a mix of “Are you serious?” and “That’s amazing!” But they’ve all been really encouraging, which has made a big difference.

6. Do you have a moment in training or fundraising that really stands out so far?

Yes – there was one long run where I really struggled, but a random stranger gave me a thumbs up as I passed. It sounds small, but it meant a lot in that moment. It reminded me that this journey is about more than just the run – it’s about community and support.

7. What are you most nervous or excited about on race day?

I’m nervous about the start – just making sure I pace myself and don’t get swept up in the adrenaline too quickly. But I’m really excited to be part of such a big, positive event. The energy of the crowd and running alongside thousands of people will be unforgettable.

8. What would you say to someone thinking about running or fundraising for Bright Northumbria in future?

Go for it! You don’t have to be a seasoned runner to take on a challenge like this. It’s about heart, not speed. The support you get along the way is incredible and knowing you’re doing it for such a meaningful cause makes every mile worth it.

We are honoured to have 100 amazing runners for the 2025 Great North Run including, for the first time, Mini and Junior places.

If you want to support any of them in their fundraising, visit our Enthuse page.

Help Fadwa go the extra mile with her fundraising here.