When grief knocks you down, it can feel impossible to get back up. But for Joanne Stone, Admin Assistant Paternoster House, lacing up a pair of trainers was the first step toward healing, and eventually led her to the finish line of the iconic London Marathon.

Joanne's story began in 2023 after the heartbreaking loss of her mum. “I decided to do ‘Couch to 5K’ to help me with my grief,” she explained. “I know exercise and the outdoors are good for mental health, and I realised quite quickly that it was helping me. It became a great way to decompress from the day.”

What started as a coping strategy turned into a full-blown passion, one that pushed Joanne to take on one of the world’s most famous endurance challenges. And she didn’t do it just for herself. Joanne ran to raise funds for two causes that hold a special place in her heart. The first: the Resident Fund at Paternoster House. “Residents mean so much to me,” she said. “I wanted to do something to ensure they can enjoy more activities and experiences.”

The second charity that Joanne ran for is Wiltshire Search and Rescue, part of Lowland Rescue, a volunteer-based team that works alongside emergency services to find missing people. Joanne proudly shared: “My husband is a volunteer search technician, and our dog is currently a trainee search and rescue dog, due to take his assessment in June 2025.”

Her determination paid off as Joanne raised an impressive £1,450 for the two charities.

The training wasn’t easy. Using a marathon training app, Joanne built up her strength and stamina over a 16-week programme. She said: “It was a mix of running three to four times a week and strength training at the gym.” Slowly but surely, the miles added up.

Come marathon day, it wasn’t about finishing fast, it was about finishing strong. Joanne completed the 26.2-mile course in 7 hours, soaking in every moment of the once-in-a-lifetime experience.

“My favourite part, apart from the end,” she laughed, “was running across Tower Bridge. It’s such an iconic part of the marathon. Running past Big Ben and up The Mall towards Buckingham Palace was amazing, knowing the finish line was just around the corner.”

The day was filled with special moment, from the electric support of the crowd to sun cream from strangers, a spectator with a cat in a basket, and even someone stood next to a horse. But seeing her husband and friends cheering her on multiple times along the route? That was the icing on the cake.

Joanne’s colleagues at Paternoster House couldn’t be prouder. Lindsey Worthy, Home Manager, said: “Jo is an inspiration to us all. Her dedication to our residents and the causes she believes in is truly heartwarming. To take on something as challenging as the London Marathon, and do it with such passion and purpose, is nothing short of incredible. We’re all so proud of her!”

What’s next for Joanne? After a well-earned rest and some muscle recovery, she’s already planning her next goal — a half marathon later this year. “Possibly with my daughter,” she said. “I’ve inspired her to take up running too.”