Belfast Marathon Fundraiser for SWOT

Hello everyone!

This year over 100 medical students from Queen’s University Belfast are running either the full Belfast marathon or marathon relay to raise money for a SWOT. SWOT is a medical student-led charity which stands for ‘Students Working Overseas Trust’. QUB students organise various events every year to support the charity, including the iconic SWOT fashion show, blood pressure clinics, and sporting events.

SWOT's mission is impactful; the money raised directly supports low-resourced hospitals in various countries. Each year, fourth-year students undertake 4-5 week clinical attachments in both urban and rural hospitals, identifying areas of need and directing SWOT funds where they are required most. This approach effectively cuts out the ‘middle man,’ ensuring all donations go directly to where they are needed most. This July, students will travel to various countries, including Malawi, Peru, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Tanzania and many more. Last year, SWOT funds supplied hospitals with essential equipment such as ECG machines, stethoscopes, oxygen cylinders, sanitation and hygiene products, and pharmacy supplies. With a record-breaking number of students participating in the marathon, we aim to provide even more this year.

We would all appreciate any donation, big or small to SWOT. A special shout out to our 10 students who are attempting to run the full marathon; final year students; Beth McCullough and Alisha Bhandarri, 4th year students; Georgina Cook, Maura Kirk, Alanna Murphy, Christopher Archer, Reece Somerville and Conall Rice, 3rd year students; Lara Hanly and Georgia Ross and 2nd year student Oliver Galvez Haynes. These students have been training for months, alongside studying for exams and attending university classes and placement. A special mention goes to Dr Jim McMullan, Claire McPhillips, Rosie McGaughey, Dr Kathy Cullen and Dr Gerry Gormley who are a team running from Queen's Centre of Medical Education in support of SWOT!

We would all also really appreciate any support and encouragement on the day! You will spot us in our personalised SWOT tops.

Thank you so much,

The SWOT marathon team :)

For more info regarding SWOT, check out our Instagram @swotqub