A 20-strong team of runners are preparing for a charity challenge in memory of a beloved colleague.
Sue Richardson, former director of finance at Aberdeen University, was diagnosed with a brain tumour in January and died just 16 weeks later.
Now the 54-year-old’s colleagues have signed up for the Great Aberdeen Run to raise cash for Brain Tumour Research – and have set themselves the target of £10,000.
Caroline Inglis and Iain Grant have recruited more than 20 staff members to take on either the 10K or half marathon, which will take participants past some of the Granite City’s most loved spots, including Union Street, Brig o’Balgownie, Seaton Park and Old Aberdeen.
Ms Inglis said: “Sue had been at Aberdeen University for a long time and was, for a short period, our director of finance before moving to a similar post at Coventry University around two years ago.
“Last Christmas she had a dose of flu and became a bit confused. At first it was thought she was suffering from severe dehydration but after being taken to hospital she was given a scan and the brain tumour was discovered.
“It was particularly aggressive and malignant and sadly she passed away in May.
“She loved running and had been planning to take part in this year’s Simplyhealth Great Aberdeen Run along with myself and other friends, until she became unwell.”
Of their £10,000 target, the running team have currently raised nearly £5,000, with a month left until the big day.
Mr Grant is looking forward to the event, and pointed out the route itself may stir emotions in the group.
He said: “It will be particularly poignant for those doing the half marathon as the course comes through the university campus, but we are all keen to be involved. We’ve already started with some group training sessions , and that’s great for spurring people on.
“Our goal is to raise a healthy amount for the charity and we set an ambitious target of £10,000. We are almost halfway there already so hopefully we will achieve it.”
Hundreds of people have signed up for the Simplyhealth Great Aberdeen Run, which takes place on August 26. Places are still available.
To support the university team’s fundraising effort, visit www.justgiving.com/companyteams/runforsue
