A local runner who conquered the London Marathon has described the experience as her ‘victory lap’ — eight years after being diagnosed with a painful knee condition.
Katie Geddes, a Frome resident and leader of the community running group Plod for Pastries, completed the marathon on Sunday 27th April. Her achievement came eight years after being diagnosed with Osgood-Schlatter disease — a condition that causes pain and swelling below the kneecap.
Katie took on the challenge to raise funds for the British Orthopaedic Association (BOA), a charity that supported her following two successful knee surgeries. The BOA conducts research into musculoskeletal disorders to improve orthopaedic treatment, restore mobility and help people regain their independence.
Through her efforts, Katie raised £2,040, surpassing her £2,000 fundraising target.
“The atmosphere on the day was electric — it honestly felt like running through a stadium,” said Katie. “People cheered my name for four and a half hours; it carried me through. I also felt emotional — massive gratitude for my body and grateful for getting a place to run.
“I loved every moment but was relieved to have finished. It was a hot day and the last 7km was very hard. My hamstrings started to cramp near the end, and from the 35km mark, I saw a few people collapse holding their calves. We were all in the same boat! I brought my pace down and got through it, just like the other 56,639 people who completed it — a new Guinness World Record!
“I was very lucky to leave without heatstroke or injury — again, just feeling very grateful.”
Completing her first-ever marathon pain-free marked a ‘full-circle’ moment for Katie. “It was a moment where I was able to get back to running pain-free and do my ‘victory lap’ around the streets of London.
“The British Orthopaedic Association really helped me, and I was able to complete the London Marathon as a result. This is my opportunity to thank them — thanks Dr Jonathon Eldridge!”
Encouraging others to take on the challenge, Katie added, “If I can do it, anyone can. Just take it one run, or one plod, at a time — and you’ll surprise yourself.”
