Marathon postie aims to deliver for lung disease charity

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A POSTWOMAN is hoping to make a speedy delivery next month as she runs 26 gruelling miles for a charity that is very close to her heart.

Sue Hall, 37, of Brigg is swapping her Royal Mail uniform and letters bag for trainers and running gear in her attempt to complete the London Marathon in April.

Kind-hearted Sue is taking on the challenge in aid of the Scunthorpe and district Breathe-Easy group which provides guidance, support and friendship to those with incurable lung diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), emphysema, asthma, cystic fibrosis and lung cancer.

She said: "I first met Anne, the chairman of Breathe- Easy, a number of years ago on my post round.

"Since then I have helped out at a number of fundraisers, such as charity stalls. But this is undoubtedly my biggest challenge yet.

"I currently have an ankle injury which has put a halt to my training, but whether I have to walk or crawl I am determined to cross the finish line. I am certain I will do it because I am too stubborn to give in."

The Breathe-Easy group was formed in 2005 and is a subsidiary of the British Lung Foundation.

"The group does not have a very high profile and I want to help raise awareness about the support which is available for people with lung disease in North Lincolnshire," said Sue.

"So many people automatically assume that people have lung disease because they are or were smokers, but that simply is not true.

"The majority of Breathe-Easy members have never smoked in their lives.

"The group is a real lifeline for people in North Lincolnshire because lung disease has such a devastating impact on your life and the lives of your family.

"Things we take for granted, such as walking around the shops just are not possible for members of Breathe- Easy.

"They are a fabulous group who really deserve more recognition."

Sue is raising money through sponsorship for her marathon attempt.

"I have not set myself a fundraising target, I would just like to raise as much money as possible," she said

"People don't need to sponsor me, as such.

"I am collecting loose change from people on my post round and they have already been extremely generous.

"I am hoping the money I raise will help to make a small difference to the group."

Anne Rickell, chairman of the Breath-Easy group, praised Sue for her tremendous efforts.

"We are all so grateful of Sue for everything she has already done for Breathe-Easy," she said

"She is a remarkable woman who is always putting others before herself.

"This is a tremendous challenge she has undertaken and we are all so proud of her.

"Breathe-Easy provides help, support and guidance to anyone affect by lung disease.

"We currently have about 20 members and always welcome new members.

"Sue's donation will make a massive difference to our group and we cannot thank her enough."

To sponsor Sue, or to find out more about the Breathe-Easy group, call Anne on 01652 657350.

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