A determined Rossington runner has raised £1,764 for St John’s Hospice after completing the 2026 London Marathon in an impressive four hours and 20 minutes.
Amanda Smith, 47, a Fraud Prevention Lead at the NHS Counter Fraud Authority, was among a Guinness World Record-breaking 59,226 finishers in the world-famous 26.2-mile race on Sunday, 26 April. She ran in memory of close family friend Lynn Hissey, who received compassionate end-of-life care at the hospice in 2020.
While Amanda had previously completed marathons in 2014 and 2017, this year’s challenge carried a personal significance. Not only was it her first time taking part in the London Marathon but simply making it to the start line marked a major milestone.
Amanda lives with Lupus, and a severe flare-up combined with major surgery in 2023 left her unable to walk or work for two months. Her journey back to fitness, and ultimately to marathon success, highlights her resilience and determination.
Reflecting on her achievement, Amanda said:
“I didn’t run for over a year, and when I did return, I had to start from scratch. This was such an emotional run for me, but thanks to my mum, my friends and colleagues, and the incredible support from the crowds along the route, I can honestly say it was the best day of my life!
“To top it all off, Lynn’s daughter Olivia was there to greet me at the finish line, waving dragonfly signs for St John’s Hospice, it made everything feel so worthwhile.”
Maureen Harwood, Fundraiser at St John’s Hospice, said:
“We are incredibly grateful to Amanda and couldn’t be prouder of her outstanding achievement.
“Her determination in the face of such personal challenges is truly inspiring, and the funds she has raised will help us continue providing vital care and support to patients and their families when they need it most.”
Published: June 10, 2026