Claire Barker’s Emotional Connection to the Great Scottish Run
The AJ Bell Great Scottish Run, on Sunday 6 October, is set to be the biggest run weekend ever. Here, inspiring runners with a personal cause talk about their reasons for running as part of the Great Scottish Run ‘Power of Running’ series.
Claire Barker’s story is one of resilience, love, and unwavering support.
Seven years ago, Claire’s husband, who suffers from Cystic Fibrosis (CF), faced a life-threatening health crisis. His lung function was so low that he required home oxygen, and his quality of life was severely diminished. But hope arrived in the form of Orkambi, a drug that completely transformed his life. Thanks to this medication, Claire’s husband regained his strength and outlook on life, even participating in a campaign to promote the drug, while expressing deep gratitude for the care he received at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Glasgow.
Inspired by her husband’s journey, Claire is running in the Great Scottish Run Half Marathon to raise money for the Cystic Fibrosis Trust, a charity that has been a lifeline for her family. “The Cystic Fibrosis Trust has been very supportive in the past,” Claire says. “They’ve supported me and my family in times of need. So I do as much as I can to raise funds for them.”
After taking a four-year break from running, Claire recently started again. It wasn’t easy—she describes the first few runs as “awful,” but her determination pushed her through. Claire believes nothing compares to the Great Scottish Run in Glasgow. “The atmosphere on the day is amazing,” she says. Claire’s last race was emotional, as her husband was unwell, but this year she looks forward to a happier ending, celebrating with a glass of wine after crossing the finish line.
Claire’s dedication to raising funds for the CF Trust reflects her deep commitment to helping others facing similar challenges. Her journey is an inspiration, showing the power of perseverance and community support.
With the weekend expected to sell out, don’t miss out on being a part of Scotland’s Greatest. Glasgow, gaun yersel!, and click here to sign up today.
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