AKW’s Tom Bell Takes on Great Birmingham Run 10K for Charity

Software Developer Tom Bell took part in the Great Birmingham Run on Sunday 5th May 2024 in aid of Southmead Hospital Charity, and in memory of his aunt and uncle.

Tom, who works in the AKW IT Department only began competitive distance running in 2024, having previously completed a half marathon as part of the Birmingham Running Festival held in Sutton Park on 18th February.

The Great Birmingham Run 10K was the second of three events planned this year, which Tom managed despite suffering from a bout of tonsillitis. Although illness slowed him down, determination prevailed, and he crossed the finish line making his family, friends, and colleagues at AKW extremely proud. Tom has also signed up to run the Worcester City Half Marathon on 15th September, for which we wish him all the very best of luck!

Taking part in these events means a great deal to Tom, as he’s running each of them in memory of his aunt and uncle, and in aid of Southmead Hospital in Bristol – where his uncle underwent treatment for cancer, and both his aunt and uncle received invaluable end-of-life care in 2023.

Tom has said that the support offered by the healthcare staff at Southmead “couldn’t be faulted” which is why he’s chosen to fundraise throughout 2024, with donations going towards groundbreaking research, patient, family and staff wellbeing, and new equipment. So far Tom has raised over £1,200, smashing his original target of £150.

From all of us at AKW, a huge well done Tom, and best of luck with your next race!