Kirsten's London Marathon page
Kirsten Shirke
My Story
In April 2026, I’ll be lining up at the start of the London Marathon — a race I’ve dreamed of running for many years. I’m 53 now, and while I may not be as fast as I once was, my passion for running has never faded.
I ran my first marathon at the age of 39, in Paris in 2012, finishing just under four hours, and have since completed two further competitive marathons. Fourteen years on, life looks very different. I’ve had twins, who are now 12 years old, trained as a psychotherapist, and alongside this continue to work as a GP in the East End of London. Time is more stretched, my body a little older — but running remains a constant and grounding force in my life.
Running the London Marathon feels like the right challenge at the right moment. It’s also deeply meaningful to be doing it for Lewisham Local. I’ve lived most of my life in Lewisham, and all four of my children were born at Lewisham Hospital. This borough has shaped my family and my working life.
Through my work as a GP and psychotherapist, I spend much of my time supporting people who have faced addiction and struggled with their mental health. I see every day how connection, routine and purpose can transform lives — and I know first-hand how something as simple as running can offer hope, structure and a way forward.
By supporting me, you’re not just helping me get to the finish line — you’re investing in a community that has given me so much, and in projects that help people feel seen, supported and connected. Every step I take through the streets of London will be carried by that support. Thank you for believing in this journey, in Lewisham Local, and in the power of community to change lives
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Target
£2,500
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Raised so far
£3,050
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Number of donors
47
My Story
In April 2026, I’ll be lining up at the start of the London Marathon — a race I’ve dreamed of running for many years. I’m 53 now, and while I may not be as fast as I once was, my passion for running has never faded.
I ran my first marathon at the age of 39, in Paris in 2012, finishing just under four hours, and have since completed two further competitive marathons. Fourteen years on, life looks very different. I’ve had twins, who are now 12 years old, trained as a psychotherapist, and alongside this continue to work as a GP in the East End of London. Time is more stretched, my body a little older — but running remains a constant and grounding force in my life.
Running the London Marathon feels like the right challenge at the right moment. It’s also deeply meaningful to be doing it for Lewisham Local. I’ve lived most of my life in Lewisham, and all four of my children were born at Lewisham Hospital. This borough has shaped my family and my working life.
Through my work as a GP and psychotherapist, I spend much of my time supporting people who have faced addiction and struggled with their mental health. I see every day how connection, routine and purpose can transform lives — and I know first-hand how something as simple as running can offer hope, structure and a way forward.
By supporting me, you’re not just helping me get to the finish line — you’re investing in a community that has given me so much, and in projects that help people feel seen, supported and connected. Every step I take through the streets of London will be carried by that support. Thank you for believing in this journey, in Lewisham Local, and in the power of community to change lives