Hospice stalwart takes on six European half marathons – ‘dodgy knee’ and all
A woman who has dedicated more than 20 years of her life to St Peter's Hospice in Bristol is embarking on a remarkable fundraising journey to support the charity’s work.
Karen Cooper, known as KC, is a team leader for the organisation’s Hospice at Home service which provides hands on nursing care in a patient’s own environment in the last weeks of life. She will run six half marathons in six European cities over the next 18 months.
Despite a "dodgy knee," she aims to raise over £1,950 for St Peter’s Hospice.
KC began her challenge last month with half marathons in Cardiff and Valencia, Spain; with further races in Lisbon, Berlin, and Copenhagen in 2025, concluding in Prague in April 2026.
She is covering all travel and race expenses herself, guaranteeing that every penny she raises goes directly to supporting the Hospice’s vital work.
After six years as an inpatient nurse, 15 as a Community Nurse Specialist, and joining Hospice at Home in 2021, KC has witnessed firsthand the profound impact the Hospice has on people’s lives.
“I’m a keen – albeit slow! – runner, so when I saw this challenge, I thought it was ideal,” said Karen, 52, from Downend. “It’s my way of giving back to a place that has given so much to the community.
“We believe everyone deserves care and dignity at the end of their life, and our expert teams provide that in a professional and caring way.
“Our support is holistic, and covers the physical, psychological, social, and spiritual issues that can arise because of serious illness.
“We also extend our care to loved ones and carers, providing support during the hardest of times.”
KC’s training for Cardiff and Valencia was hampered by a knee ligament strain but after a rest she will restart training in December for Lisbon in early March.
To support KC’s efforts, visit her JustGiving page: https://www.justgiving.com/page/karen-cooper-1713946273496
St Peter’s Hospice cares for adults with incurable illnesses in Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire as well as providing support for their families.
All care is provided free of charge, but the charity relies on gifts in wills, donations, fundraising and money raised through its retail shops to deliver its services.
