Meet our 2026 London Marathon Runners: Kerry

In this series, we’ll be introducing the runners making up Team MediCinema, sharing what inspired them to sign up, how their training is going, and what’s driving them to raise vital funds for our work. First, we spoke to Kerry about the experiences that led her to the starting line.

What inspired you to take on the 2026 TCS London Marathon as part of the MediCinema team?

After watching the BAFTA Awards ceremony a few years ago, I felt inspired to volunteer. Working in the creative industry, I’ve seen first-hand how powerful film can be in impacting
people’s lives. Although I enjoy what I do, I began to feel disconnected and wanted to give something back in a more meaningful way.

My family’s experiences with illness also played a significant role. My dad had a kidney removed due to a 13cm cancerous tumour and faced a long recovery. My sister was treated for meningitis and now lives with ongoing nerve issues, requiring intensive physiotherapy and frequent hospital visits. These experiences have made me very aware of how clinical and emotionally challenging hospital environments can be, and how important moments of comfort and escape really are.

When I discovered the waiting list for volunteering was very long, I looked for another way to support MediCinema, which led me to take on the London Marathon challenge.

How have you been preparing for the race, and what’s been the biggest challenge so far?

I recently reconnected with a friend who has run 150 marathons and now works as a one-to-one running coach. He’s created a personalised training plan for me, which I’ve been following closely.

The biggest challenge so far has been running in the dark during the winter months. Training through cold, early mornings and evenings (especially in London) has definitely tested my motivation and resilience.

Tell us about your favourite moment or run so far whilst training or fundraising for the challenge.

One of my favourite moments was recently meeting Nicola, the cinema manager at Guy’s Hospital. We had a long and really lovely conversation about her work with MediCinema, and I was in awe of the impact she and the team have. Seeing the Polaroid wall filled with volunteers was incredibly moving.

I’ve also really enjoyed my weekend morning runs, particularly the longer routes along the River Thames, they’ve become something I genuinely look forward to.

Is there anything else you’d like to add about your challenge? 

Not at this time, but I’m really excited to continue the journey and support such an inspiring cause.