This past Sunday, more than 50,000 runners and countless supporters gathered in London for the iconic 2024 London Marathon, creating a palpable energy throughout the city.

Among these passionate athletes were our champions, Katie and Carla, who ran 26.2 miles each to shine a light on Eosinophilic-Associated Diseases (EADs). Read more about their fundraising efforts at the London Marathon 2024. 

About EOS Network

The EOS Network is a dedicated charity focused on raising awareness and supporting individuals and families affected by Eosinophilic-Associated Diseases (EADs). These conditions, which involve an elevated number of eosinophils in the body, can cause various gastrointestinal and systemic symptoms that significantly impact daily life. Through research, advocacy, and community support, EOS Network aims to improve the quality of life for those living with these challenging conditions. Read more about our impact.

A Day Full of Cheering and Determination

EOS Network's supporters' team at London Marathon 2024, ready to greet the runners

In the morning, the race began, and our team of enthusiastic supporters gathered to move towards the first point where we could cheer our runners. The atmosphere was fantastic, with everyone trying to encourage all the runners passing by. The runners embarked on their journey, knowing that they weren't running alone. 

Carla and Katie remember hearing their names throughout the entire race, which fuelled their energy to finish the Marathon!

The moment, when I saw my family, friends and the EOS Network was amazing. The support was truly out of this world. The words of support before, during, and after the race have been amazing, and I am so grateful to everyone who donated. It's a day I will cherish forever. Still can't believe that I can call myself a marathon runner. - Katie

From left to right: Amanda and Heather waiting for Carla and Katie to pass by; Katie's poster; Finally meeting Carla near the finishing point, One of the Marathon's shots.

Overcoming Challenges During the Marathon

Katie with her medal after finishing the Marathon and during the race. 

The day, from start to finish, was just incredible. At points where I started to feel tired and questioning if I could finish, a stranger would shout my name with such determination and enthusiasm it immediately got rid of that thought, and a smile would immediately appear on my face. My cheeks hurt from smiling. It feels surreal, having hundreds of people shouting your name. - Katie

Running a marathon is challenging, even for those in perfect health. Carla, one of our runners, previously shared tips on safe training for people with EADs. But preparation for the Marathon is one thing, and running it with all the pressure on the day is another, and she encountered a challenging situation during the race.

Carla experienced symptoms related to her Eosinophilic condition that made it impossible for her to use the glucose gel that is essential for sustaining energy during a long race. This moment was a stark reminder of the obstacles faced by people with Eosinophilic-Associated Diseases, even in activities many of us take for granted.

Despite this, Carla exhibited remarkable determination and was supported by the crowd, pushing through and successfully finishing the race.

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Carla reflects on the day she was running and experiencing symptoms:

"Unfortunately, the race didn’t go too well for me as I had issues with the energy gels not agreeing with me. They affected my stomach, where I suffered a burning sensation and cramps, so I had to stop and be sick twice. I could have stopped and been defeated, but I knew I had a job to do, and that was to keep running and raise awareness for EADs. 

Further on in the race, I really started to feel it; my stomach did not feel great at all and physically, my body just gave up on me. However the crowd were just insane, calling my name and cheering me on, it really motivated me and kept me going. I knew getting to the finish line was going to be such a struggle; it was a mental battle, and I had to dig deep.

I have no idea how I managed to carry on. It was extremely tough and uncomfortable, but I kept reminding myself of all the times I had been in the hospital struggling with this condition, and it gave me the strength to carry on.

There were so many runners I got chatting to before the race, on the route, and after, asking me what an EAD is and how it affects me; I even had people asking how you pronounce it, lol. For me, running the London Marathon was all about raising awareness for EOS, and I’m just so glad I was able to do that!"

Despite all the challenges I faced with my stomach, it was the best day, the atmosphere is something I have never experienced as a runner on any race before. And I am so proud I managed to get through it and raise money and awareness for EOS Network. - Carla

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A Community Effort: How Every Donation Makes a Difference

EOS Network Team with runners in branded clothing to promote awareness during the Marathon. 

Thanks to the extraordinary efforts of our runners, their families and supporters, and the generosity of 91 donors, we raised £2,655. These funds will bolster our initiatives to support research, advocacy, and care for those affected by Eosinophilic-Associated Diseases. Our impact was amplified by the noticeable clothing with 'eosinophilic' phonetics, sparking interest and engagement throughout the run.

I had a great start at Greenwich, there were a lot of nervous excited runners and I got talking to a few as they were drawn to the logo on my vest, which lead into me explaining more about Eosinophilic-Associated Diseases) EADs. They were extremely fascinated and had no idea what an EAD even was.There was a woman who was running behind me for some time, and she came closer to ask how to pronounce 'Eosinophilic'. - Carla

Different slogans are available to support your cause and activities or educate people around you. You can order items from this new collection here.

A Heartfelt Thank You and the Path Ahead

Carla and Katie meet after the Marathon

We are deeply grateful to every runner, online and offline supporter and donor who made this day unforgettable. Your passion fuels our mission and reminds us that we can overcome challenges together.

Carla's experience has further motivated us to start developing and sharing more resources on safe exercise practices for people with Eosinophilic-Associated Diseases. If you would like to share your experiences, please get in touch with us!

It’s essential for our community and healthcare professionals to understand these unique challenges to foster a supportive environment for everyone wishing to engage in physical activity.

As we look forward to next year’s London Marathon, we are inspired to keep pushing forward, knowing that every mile and every challenge overcome brings us closer to a better understanding and greater awareness of Eosinophilic-Associated Diseases.

Join Us!

Moved by our story and want to help? Learn more about how you can support our cause, and subscribe to the newsletter to participate in upcoming events. Your involvement can truly make a difference!

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