When Alex Spooner, 36, from Torquay crosses the start line of the Torbay Half Marathon this September, it will mark more than just a personal challenge – it will be a deeply heartfelt tribute to her beloved dad, Robert Spooner, who died peacefully at Rowcroft Hospice in June 2024.
“After my dad was first admitted to Rowcroft last year, my sister and I decided to run the Torbay 10k in 2024 to raise funds for the hospice,” said Alex. “Dad was so proud of both of us and was happy we were completing the journey together. We both started with the ‘Couch to 5K’ programme and were determined to reach our target.”
Neither Alex nor her sister Katherine had run before – but together, they completed their own 10k challenge after the official race was cancelled due to bad weather.Wearing their Rowcroft vests with pride, they raised over £2,000 for the hospice that cared for their dad.
“It’s incredibly meaningful to run for Rowcroft, and to give back in some small way. Running has become a huge part of my life. It gives me a sense of purpose and a connection to my dad.”
Robert, a retired chartered surveyor from Paignton, had been diagnosed with mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer caused by asbestos exposure. He received specialist care in Rowcroft’s Inpatient Unit, where he was admitted multiple times for symptom and pain management – and where he ultimately chose to spend his final days.
“The care and compassion that the team showed him, and all of us as a family, will stay with me forever. We were allable to be with him, holding his hand as he died. I honestly don’t know what we would have done without Rowcroft.”
Alex remembers the day after her father died, when she went for a run by the sea:
“Knowing that for a brief moment, all I needed to do was put one foot in front of the other was so comforting. Running quickly became a safe space for me. It was a way of coping in those early days, and it has continued to support my emotional wellbeing ever since.”
This year, Alex’s challenge is even greater – she’s doubling the distance – stepping up from 10k to take on the Torbay Half Marathon in honour of her father and to help raise vital funds for Rowcroft once again.
“Every mile I run feels like a tribute to him, and a way to support other families going through similar experiences. I know he’d be proud – not just of the physical achievement, but of the support this fundraising will bring to others. Rowcroft is such a special place, and I’m honoured to run in support of the incredible work they do every single day.”
Alex is now calling on others to join her on Sunday 21 September 2025 to take part in the Torbay Half Marathon or 10k, in aid of Rowcroft Hospice. The event is open to runners of all abilities and promises a fantastic day of community spirit, lively entertainment and scenic sea views along the English Riviera.
Charity places are available for £37 (half marathon) or £27 (10k), with limited free places available for those pledging to raise a minimum of £100 for Rowcroft.
Hayley Townsend, Fundraiser at Rowcroft Hospice said:
“The Torbay Half Marathon and 10k is a highlight in the South West’s running calendar. By signing up to run for Rowcroft, you’re going the extra mile and helping us provide specialist care for those facing the hardest times of their lives. Every step you take helps someone else get the care and support they need.”
Codes for free places are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and spaces are limited – so don’t miss out. When you join Team Rowcroft, you’ll receive training support via a weekly running club, a Rowcroft race vest, access to a private WhatsApp group and plenty of encouragement along the way. On race day, enjoy the Rowcroft wave at the start and supporters cheering you along the route. To sign up, visit: www.rowcrofthospice.org.uk/torbayhalf
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