“It’s not just a marathon – it’s an experience. A bucket list moment. And I’m proud to be doing it for a cause that means so much to me.”
Mia Hodges, former Medical Education Assistant and soon-to-be IT Server Support Officer at Cardiff and Vale University Health Board, is lacing up her trainers and taking on one of the world’s most iconic races – the London Marathon 2026 – in support of Cardiff & Vale Health Charity.
Mia, who has played a key role in setting up IT accounts for medical students and supporting sixth formers through the Medical Work Observation Programme (MWOP), is no stranger to hard work. As she begins a new chapter with the Server Team, she’s also pouring her energy into marathon training – all in support of a cause close to her heart.
“I love fitness, I love running, I love going to the gym,” Mia says. “The London Marathon is the pinnacle of it all – something that everyone dreams of doing. And the Health Board’s Charity is something I’m really passionate about. It’s a big opportunity, and I wanted to do it for a cause.”
Mia’s training is already well underway, following a structured 16-week plan broken into three key blocks: strength, endurance, and marathon-specific build-up. Currently running a minimum of 10K each week, she’s gradually increasing her distances with the goal of completing the marathon in under four hours.
“I’m quite competitive – I don’t just want to finish, I want to do it well,” she says. “There’s a lot of science behind the training. It’s about building strength and endurance to stay on your feet for that long and avoid injuries.”
Support from family and friends has been a huge motivator. Her brother, a seasoned marathon runner, is acting as her coach and running partner. Mia has also signed up for several smaller races and endurance events in the lead-up to the big day, proudly representing the Health Charity at every step.
The cause is deeply personal. “The Health Charity supports so many different services, and my family has received exceptional care from all areas. Running for the charity means I can represent every one of them – not just a single department. It means more to do it for more people.”
Even her family’s caravan site in the Gower is getting involved, with fundraising tins already collecting donations from supportive regulars who’ve known Mia since childhood.
For Mia, running is more than just a sport – it’s a source of strength and comfort. “No matter what kind of day I’ve had, I can run it off. It’s like a comfort blanket. Running clears my head and resets everything.”
With her fundraising page live and donations already coming in, Mia is more motivated than ever. “Seeing people support me so early in the journey makes me want to keep going. I’m already excited about the day – booking the hotel, soaking in the atmosphere. It’s something I’ll always look back on and be proud of.”
To show your support and help Mia reach her fundraising goal, please visit her JustGiving page: www.justgiving.com/page/mia-hodges-1
Every step Mia takes is powered by your generosity.
