Posted on: 8 May 2025
Last month, Oli and Lucy, laced up their running shoes and joined 57,000 others in the 2025 Paris Marathon. What made their run stand out? Not only was it was their very first marathon, but that they ran every mile in support of the CNWL NHS Health Charity — a cause close to their heart.
Oli, the son of CNWL NHS Foundation Trust’s Chief Medical Officer Dr. Cornelius Kelly, is currently studying in Paris and saw the city’s famed marathon as the perfect challenge during his year abroad. He said:
“I wanted to push myself — and what better way than to complete the marathon in Paris (my new city) for a fantastic cause back home!
This is a cause deeply personal to me for family reasons. I hope to do my part to create a healthier, happier (and richer) CNWL for all the amazing people who work there."
Lucy, who is also studying in Paris echoed Oli’s sentiment and highlighted her personal reasons for running for the charity as a “cause that is especially meaningful as someone brought up in North West London”.
Though no stranger to long-distance running, Lucy acknowledged the physical and mental leap required to take on a full 26.2-mile marathon:
“I have enjoyed long-distance running since childhood, but I have never attempted anything as demanding as a marathon. I was excited to take on this challenge, both in training and on race day, to raise funds for a charity that makes a real difference in my community.”
Reflecting on the experience, Oli and Lucy offered heartfelt thanks to their supporters and appreciation to the the CNWL Charity Team for making their marathon journey possible. They said:
“A massive thank you to everyone who donated to this incredible cause! Your support both inspired and fuelled us when the training got tough and the road seemed never-ending.”
Collectively, they have raised an incredible £1,900. Thank you Oli and Lucy!