Two sisters, one marathon, one incredible cause: Clare and Kat’s 2026 London Marathon journey for Brighterway

Running for the NHS family that means so much

Meet Clare and Kat — sisters, best friends, and Advanced Clinical Practitioners who have dedicated over 15 years to the NHS. Together, they’ve supported patients, families and colleagues through the highs and lows of healthcare life. 

Now, they’re swapping their scrubs for running shoes as they take on the 2026 London Marathon in support of Brighterway, the charity that helps staff and patients across the Hampshire and Isle of Wight NHS Trust.

A shared journey from healthcare to the marathon starting line

Running has always been part of Clare and Kat’s story. It started when Clare ran her first London Marathon at 26 — just a year after joining the NHS — and somehow managed to rope Kat into training with her (even though Kat wasn’t running!). Fifteen years later, the roles reversed when Kat ran the marathon herself, with Clare cheering her on and joining for the training miles.

In 2026, they’ll finally take on the challenge side by side — united by a shared love of running, resilience, and plenty of coffee stops along the way.

Why Brighterway?

For Clare and Kat, Brighterway represents everything they value about the NHS — kindness, connection, and community. The charity funds projects that make a real difference to both staff and patients, from wellbeing activities and relaxation spaces to creative initiatives that brighten hospital environments.

As frontline healthcare professionals, the sisters see first-hand how these small touches can transform someone’s day.

 “We both believe in the power of a hot drink and a chat,” they say. “Sometimes that’s all it takes to lift a mood, spark a smile, or help someone feel seen.”

How you can help

Every donation — even the price of a coffee — helps Brighterway continue its incredible work, improving staff welfare, patient care and community wellbeing across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. Your support will keep Clare and Kat running strong all the way to the finish line of the 2026 London Marathon.

👉 Support Clare and Kat’s fundraising journey and donate today: Visit their JustGiving page

Keep an eye out for updates from Clare and Kat as they train, fundraise and prepare to take on London in 2026 — one step at a time, together for Brighterway.