Publish date: 13 March 2026
From a seasoned club runner rediscovering her stride to a newcomer inspired by the buzz of race day, this weekend will see two Mersey Care colleagues lace up their trainers to take on the Liverpool Half Marathon!
While their running journeys couldn’t be more different— they both share a love of what running brings them, and the same commitment to supporting Mersey Cares, our dedicated Trust charity.
Their support and fundraising will enable our charity to bring to life projects beyond NHS funding to support service users, patients and staff.
Introducing our runners…
Katie: The seasoned runner rediscovering her stride
For Consultant Clinical Psychologist, Katie Pownell, running has long been a part of life. A club runner for nearly a decade, she has crossed plenty of finish lines—but like many, the pandemic years took their toll.
“I haven’t done any road races since 2021,” she reflects. “I lost a lot of motivation during COVID times.”
After a steady return to training, Katie was set to run the Liverpool Half in 2024, but illness kept her from the start line. This year, she’s ready—and excited.
“The atmosphere at this race is always fantastic, with local running clubs, friends, and family out in force along the route,” she says. “I’m really excited for this year’s race having been able to train for it properly.”
Since moving to Mossley Hill Hospital, Katie’s found even more inspiration through the early morning running club formed within the Crisis Resolution and Home Treatment team (CRHT). “It’s been brilliant to run with members of the team,” she says, sharing that some of them are are also doing the half this year. “It’s an added bonus to be racing with them too!”
When she first signed up last year, Katie chose to support Mersey Cares without hesitation.
“Working for Mersey Care, I’m aware of the great work the charity does for staff and patients through funding creative projects not usually in the scope of NHS funding; it’s these things that really help teams make an extra difference for patients and for one other.”
Support Katie’s fundraising page: The Mersey Care NHS Charity: Katie’s Fundraising Page
Robert: The new runner who signed up on a whim—and never looked back
For Commissioning Case Manager working in the PROSPECT LPC Team, Robert Kelly, the journey to the starting line began by accident.
Twelve months ago, on the morning of the Liverpool Half Marathon, he was waiting in the City Centre for his niece’s cathedral performance. Finding himself there far too early, he was inspired by the stream of runners gathering in the streets and the buzz of the event.
“The atmosphere was electric. It was just so good!” he remembers. “I thought, I want to be a part of this next year! And without thinking much about it, I signed up on the spot.”
In the days afterwards, the reality of his impulsive decision began to set in.
“Someone said to me, ‘You do realise how difficult that’ll be, don’t you?’” he laughs.
“My main exercise was walking the dogs—nothing intense like running. I wasn't particularly fit at the time.”
But the challenge turned into something incredibly meaningful.
Eager to support his impulsive decision, Robert’s sister put him in touch with a local running group. He started with a technique called "Jeffing"—a structured method of 30 seconds of running followed by 30 seconds of walking to increase endurance, reduce injury and manage fatigue.
“We’d do that for an hour, slowly building up my stamina. From there, I graduated to social runs, then to my first Parkrun, and eventually to the longer runs I've built up over the year. I'm quite confident with it now—I love it! Today, my Parkrun personal best is 21 minutes and 25 seconds, which I’m told is quite good!”
“Running has become the best way I know to clear my head after a stressful day. It’s been completely transformative.”
But the benefits for Robert have gone far beyond physical health and wellbeing. Through running, he’s found a supportive, welcoming community and formed friendships that extend well outside of training sessions. He encourages anyone considering running to join a local club and experience that sense of belonging for themselves.
“The running community is lovely; they’re so friendly and inclusive. We celebrate birthdays together, go out for meals, and I’m in several WhatsApp groups with people I’ve met. When you don’t feel like putting your trainers on, there’s always someone to give you that little nudge. You might set off thinking you’re not in the mood, but once you’re there, we always end up having a good laugh.”
Raising funds for Mersey Cares
Robert is running to raise funds for Mersey Cares, as he says the work the Trust’s charity does to support Mental Health and community services is close to his heart.
“Having worked on the front lines of healthcare and now as a Case Manager for Mersey Care, I know the vital work these services do. I wanted to support them so they can help even more people who rely on them.”
So, how is he feeling ahead of the event?
“I’ve done the full distance twice over the last few weeks. I’m taking it easy to avoid injury, but I feel ready. I never dreamed I’d be able to run like this. I didn’t think I’d enjoy it, but I really do. It just makes you feel great—though the best part of any run is always finishing it!”
Support Robert’s fundraising page: The Mersey Care NHS Charity: 1st half marathon
Wishing our runners the best of luck!
As we move towards the big day, we’d like to say a huge thank you for representing our Trust, for supporting Mersey Cares, and for showing what dedication, kindness, and team spirit look like in action.
Good luck this weekend—we’ll be cheering you on every step of the way!
Want to know where the money raised will go? Take a look at our jam-packed latest Impact Report
Would you like to join a Mersey Cares fundraiser? We’ve a range of challenges on offer and are looking for people to support us!
Upcoming Events
Mersey Tunnel 10k – 12 April 2026
Skydive to support Mental Health Awareness Week – 16 May 2026
Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge – 6 June 2026
The Port Sunlight 10K and 5K event - 7 June 2026
NHS Big Tea - Monday 29 June - 10 July 2026
London to Paris Cycle for ZSA – 22 July 2026
Snowdon at Night 2026 – 1 August 2026
Northern Lights Trek Challenge – February 2027
Thank you for your support in making a difference.
