Adoption UK Fundraising - Supporter Focus, November 24

Running the Loch Ness Marathon: A Journey of Heart and Hope with Adoption UK

With its breathtaking views of the Scottish Highlands, the iconic Loch Ness marathon offers a chance for runners to push their limits while supporting a cause close to their hearts. For Tessa and her amazing family, it became the perfect way to raise funds and awareness for Adoption UK.

The Beginning Of Tessa’s Running Journey -

Tessa’s journey began in 2019 when Tessa and her family adopted their first daughter. Like many adoptive parents, their path was full of both joy and challenges. But when the pandemic hit, isolating them from the outside world, running became Tessa’s sanctuary. It started as a personal escape, but over time, it evolved into a passionate commitment to help others.Tessa began by running the Scottish Half Marathon, raising funds for Adoption UK along the way. When she learned about the Loch Ness Marathon, she knew it was the perfect next challenge that could help raise vital funds to help other adoptive families. The Loch Ness Marathon is known for its stunning beauty, but for Tessa, it also became a symbol of hope, resilience, and community.

Training And Preparation -

Training for such a monumental race wasn’t easy. But Tessa found strength in the process—both physically and emotionally. With a strict training schedule of runs, sprints, hill climbs, and workouts, she built the endurance needed to conquer the marathon. The journey to the starting line was full of lessons about perseverance and resilience, and each step she took in training strengthened her resolve as an adoptive parent.

Race Day - 

Race day was a celebration—a culmination of Tessa’s hard work and dedication, not just to running, but to the families who need support. Tessa completed the Loch Ness Marathon and raised incredible funds knowing that every step was helping to make a real difference for other adoptive families. The money raised will help Adoption UK provide support to families and children navigating adoption, ensuring they have the resources, training, and help needed for successful journeys.

What Next? -

The marathon was only the beginning for Tessa and her family. They are still actively involved with Adoption UK, attending support groups, fundraising events, and offering encouragement to others on their adoption journeys. Tessa, who is a secondary school teacher, also works to bring Adoption UK’s resources into her school, helping create a better understanding of adoption in her community.

Reflecting on her experience, Tessa shared -

“The day of the race was really exciting, and it was wonderful to meet the other runners. Seeing the donations come in was particularly rewarding – I shared the page with all my friends and family and have been overwhelmed by their support. It’s amazing to be put in touch with other families who ‘get it’ and with whom we can share the ups and downs of parenting and the various adoption processes. Recently, I contacted Adoption UK to access support and training for our staff and pupils, which opened my eyes to the wide range of services they provide.”

Begin Your Fundraising Journey For Adoption UK - 

If Tessa’s story has inspired you, why not consider joining a marathon and running for a cause that means something to you?  Every step you take can help create a better world for the adopted and care experienced community and together, we can all make a lasting impact. 

Click Here To Find Out How You Can Get Involved