A WOMAN is taking on the London Marathon for Sue Ryder in tribute to "life-changing" support she received.

Maria Ward was given bereavement help by the charity, which operates Manorlands hospice at Oxenhope, following the sudden death of her husband in 2022.

"Arran died after a heart attack and it was without doubt the most traumatic thing that has ever happened to me," says Maria, 52.

"I didn’t know much about Sue Ryder’s bereavement support before then, but I came across its counselling services when I was out in Leeds city centre.

"Sue Ryder had a table set up encouraging people to sit and talk about their grief.

"The woman I spoke to told me all about the charity's bereavement counselling.

"Once I contacted the service and had my initial appointment, I was referred for counselling. From the first moment I knew it would help – they really understood what I was going through.

"I had six counselling sessions and they have been life-changing. I still get sad of course, but now I know how to live."

Maria turned to running to help rekindle her passion for life.

"I was trying to find things that were good for me and a few people suggested parkrun," she says. "I went, and it was amazing! It’s now the reason I get up on a weekend.

"I decided I wanted to give back to Sue Ryder after how much it helped me, and I was looking to do something big. I thought, there’s no reason why that can’t be a marathon!

"I couldn’t believe it when I got the call to say I had been accepted to do the London Marathon for Sue Ryder. The partners of a lot of people I met through my widow group had been cared for at Manorlands, which gave me even more motivation.

"I joined a running club because I wanted a training plan, and that has been great for the social side too. It is a huge commitment but it has been a really good thing to get involved with. I find that running is very therapeutic and helps me with my grief. Arran always loved being outside and I know if he was here now he would be so supportive and encouraging. I can see his face when I am out running, spurring me on."

The marathon is on April 21.

To donate, visit justgiving.com/fundraising/Maria-Ward8