News

44 year old Steve Heller from Camborne has run a series of marathons for Children’s Hospice South West (CHSW).

Steve’s running journey began 15 years ago after quitting alcohol, and since 2018 he has run various marathons and ultra-marathons for the charity, starting with the Eden Project marathon in 2018.

Steve has run 5 ultra-marathons, and also set himself personal challenges. He even ran 50km where he broke his wrist, and ran the last 8km with it tucked into his vest.

Steve said: “I’ve enjoyed the challenges, and everyone has been very generous and supportive, even local business have donated, which is great."

“When I started, I was only aiming to raise around £1,000 but as time went on and people came forward to donate, I thought, why not go for £20,000 and complete a 100-mile ultra? I have wanted to complete the 100 miles since hearing about the annual Arc of Attrition race near where I live, about 10 years ago."

The 100 miles was by far Steve’s hardest challenge, he even took a meditation course to help him get through it.

Steve said: “The 100-mile rained heavily for over 24 hours. I used my house as an aid station and would run various out and back loops, filling my water bottles and changing into dry clothes before heading out on another route. It took 32 hours to complete.

“The challenge was harder mentally than physically, my emotions seemed to be amplified and at times I was in complete panic, worried about how I would feel in x amount of miles. The meditation course I had previously taken helped but at times it was hard not to panic. The last 20 miles were the worst. The sun had come up, and I was exhausted but knew I would complete the ultra if I kept plodding along.”

Steve started up Cornish News 10 years ago, and feels ‘very privileged to have such an amazing following.”

“I have fundraised in the past and it felt like the right thing to use Cornish News for good and to give something back to the community”, Steve continued.

Children's Hospice South West was chosen by the followers and it has been a pleasure raising money for the hospice, it feels like we have a strong community.

“Thanks to everyone who has followed me along this journey especially those who have donated to CHSW.”

Steve’s proceeds will go to CHSW’s Little Harbour Hospice in Porthpean, St Austell. Little Harbour opened its doors to its first families in December 2011 and is most conveniently situated for families who live in Cornwall, Plymouth and parts of South Devon.

Amanda Masters, Area Fundraiser for CHSW, said: “Steve is an absolute hero, and he should be so proud of what he’s achieved, not just for himself, but for Little Harbour.

The funds he has raised will massively benefit the lives of the children, young people and families that use the hospice, and will make such a huge difference. Thank you Steve, and best of luck with your future endeavours!