WHEN Wokingham’s half marathon gets underway on Sunday, there will be a poignant moment of reflection for a team of runners: they’re taking part in memory of a cherished friend and relative.
The five runners, one of whom is coming from Dubai, will be lining up at Cantley Park to raise funds for Sue Ryder, in honour of Mark Sessions, who died last June.
The team – named Team ReMARKable – comprises Mark’s son, Ben, nephew Dave Warren, family friends Wendy and Jeremy Brown, and Mandy Thompson, who is supporting the hospice as they cared for her mother-in-law and her friend’s mother.
Mark’s wife Carole, who lives in Finchampstead, said: “Mark was always very active and healthy – he regularly went to the gym, cycled to work daily, and ran – so when he was diagnosed with cancer in 2019 it was a big shock.
“He was on medication for a long time and still able to do the physical activities he enjoyed for some time, but sadly the cancer spread to his brain and spine which meant that he lost a lot of function and it got to a stage where he was unable to move.”
Carole gave up work to care for Mark at home, but he was referred to Sue Ryder when they required additional support.
“The doctors were brilliant and managed to get Mark a bed at Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice, which made such a difference. In his room he was able to look out over the lovely gardens and the staff did everything they could to make him comfortable, as well as looking after me too,” she said.
“I couldn’t have managed on my own at home, and I was able to spend quality time with him and be there at the end which was really special.”
Nephew Dave is travelling from Harrogate to take part – an event Mark competed in himself in 1990 – alongside Wendy, Jeremy and Mandy, who live locally.
Mark’s son Ben will be taking part virtually in Dubai, where he lives.
“Sue Ryder was so important for my family, and we wanted to come together and raise funds to ensure they can be there for other people going through difficult times,” says Carole. “I’m not running, but I will be there to cheer everyone on along the way.”
Team ReMARKable have so far raised almost £2,000 for Sue Ryder.
To donate to their fundraising page, visit: justgiving.com/team/TeamreMARKable
