A first-time marathon runner from Muswell Hill smashed her fundraising target to raise vital funds for her life-long best friend’s charity.
Mum-of-one Zia Zareem Slade had hoped to gain £2,000 of sponsorship for Hertfordshire-based Rooprai Spinal Trust when she tackled the London Marathon, but the money kept pouring in.
More than £6,000 was eventually handed over to the organisation that was set up following a car accident that left her friend Marrianne Rooprai paralysed from the shoulders down.
Zia, 45, said: “Marrianne and I have known each other since we were three. She is quite simply the most inspirational, tenacious and determined person you could ever meet.
“She has fought for her life on more than one occasion and has defied the odds on so many more. Not one to settle, she uses her determination, positivity and sheer hard work to drive change and inspire others.
“Being able to take part in what was a fantastic day and be able to raise money for Marrianne’s incredible charity made it all the more special.”
Zia’s contribution to the charity, which was established in 2004 by Marrianne’s partner, Andy Uttridge, and Sharon Hart, helped bring the total raised from the famous event to around £19,000.
Andy, who lives in Royston, Herts, said: “We had six runners taking part for us this year and to raise close to £20,000 is phenomenal and we can’t thank everyone enough. That money will enable the charity to support so many people and we are incredibly grateful for everyone’s efforts.”
Since the charity’s launch, fundraising has helped Marrianne participate in a number of ground-breaking research projects in America and its Physio Scholarship Program gives others, paralysed by spinal cord injury, access to specialist physiotherapy. The team of volunteers also helps people who have been affected by spinal cord injury by sharing her experiences with others.
Funds also support research in the fight to reverse paralysis and improve the quality of life for those with a spinal cord injury.
