Published: 02 May 2024

A Pembrokeshire woman has raised over £13,000 for good causes after challenging herself to complete the London Marathon.

Terrie Savage put on her running shoes to take on the 26.2-mile London Marathon to raise funds for the Wales Air Ambulance and Withybush Chemotherapy Day Unit. Terrie completed the marathon in a fantastic 3 hours and 50 minutes.

Terrie who previously challenged herself to a couple of half marathons, ramped up her training and set herself the challenge to double her distance. She now seems to have the running bug and has already put her name in the ballot for a place in next year’s race.

Reflecting on her huge achievement, Terrie, 27, said: “I started running last October when I signed up for the Cardiff Half Marathon and I have never looked back. I was running 30-40 miles per week in January to February and then I decreased the miles in March. It was really tough to get up at 6am, before work to fit these runs in, but I really wouldn't have had it any other way.

“I absolutely loved the London Marathon, every single mile I smiled and had the best time - when I say I loved it, I really did!  Speaking to the other runners really inspired me to keep going and sign up for more marathons!”

Wales Air Ambulance is consultant-led, taking hospital-standard treatments to the patient and if required, transferring them directly to the most appropriate hospital for their illness or injury. For the patient, this can mean hours saved when compared to standard care and is proven to greatly improve survival and recovery.

It is delivered via a unique Third Sector and Public Sector partnership. The Emergency Medical Retrieval and Transfer Service (EMRTS) supplies highly skilled NHS consultants and critical care practitioners who work on board the charity’s vehicles.

Terrie, who also organised a tractor run to help with her fundraising, had a personal reason for supporting the all-Wales charity. The money raised for both causes will be split equally.

She added: “ My grandfather had a heart attack in 2021 and the Wales Air Ambulance came out to Little Haven. Unfortunately, he had passed away, but the team worked on him for a good few hours. I was really grateful for the support and care that they gave my grandad and our family.”

“I am currently on £6,500 to give to the Charity and I cannot believe the grand total, it really goes to show how worthy this cause really is. I’ve had people messaging me and talking about their experience with the Wales Air Ambulance and their inspiring stories around this wonderful charity. The life changing care these individuals deliver daily is unbelievable.”

The Wales Air Ambulance Charity relies on public donations to raise the £11.2 million required every year to keep the helicopters in the air and rapid response vehicles on the road.

Wales Air Ambulance’s Supporter Engagement Manager, Hannah Bartlett, said: “Wow, what an achievement, a massive congratulations to Terrie for not only completing a massive physical challenge but for also raising such a huge amount of money!

“We are so grateful to Terrie for choosing to support our charity. It is clear that our service is close to her heart, and it is always heart-warming for us to hear of people, like Terrie, who know someone who needed our lifesaving service, and are then inspired to fundraiser. Congratulations Terrie and thank you for supporting us.  Your incredible efforts will help other people who need our service in the future.”

There’s still time to show your support to Terrie by donating to her Wales Air Ambulance JustGiving page www.justgiving.com/page/terrie-savage-1688759900496