Eleanor Runs 10km Race for Leukaemia Charity

Monday, 21 May 2012

Year 10 Girls' Division pupil, Eleanor Harding, ran the BUPA Manchester 10k run, raising over £1000 for Leukaemia and Lymphoma Research, despite being mid-way through an 18 month maintenance chemo regime herself.

Eleanor ran the 10k in just 49 minutes, along with her parents and brother who supported her along the way. Since last year, Eleanor has moved from intensive chemo to a maintenance regime and has been working hard to regain her fitness. With the help of her gym, Virgin Active in Bolton, she has been following a programme to build up her strength and this, along with training with her dad, resulted in Eleanor being able to complete the run in a fantastic time without stopping.

Eleanor said: "I'm really proud that I managed to finish the run without stopping and that I've been able to raise money for the charity that helped me. This time last year I never would have thought I could do it as I was in a wheelchair a lot of the time."

Miss Sue Hincks, Headmistress of Bolton School Girls' Division said: "All the pupils and staff at Bolton School are amazed and inspired by what Eleanor has achieved, not just in this race but in every aspect of school life, in which she plays a huge part. Her Form Tutor, Mrs Elaine Hayes, has kept the Common Room informed about all of Eleanor's successes and we are delighted with her progress."

Eleanor chose to raise money for Leukaemia and Lymphoma Research, as their research has meant tremendous strides in Leukaemia treatment which has had a direct impact on Eleanor. Last year four of her school friends, Mellissa Pye, Jessica Unsworth, Georgina Wallis and Abbie Palmer, ran the 10 k for the same charity, while Eleanor was undergoing treatment.