Edinburgh mums take on challenge to raise money for charity that 'provided a lifeline'
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A group of mums are teaming up for the Edinburgh marathon to raise money for a charity close to their hearts.
The four mothers - who bonded through a local exercise group - are hoping to raise funds for Active Mum's due to the support it provided for them to return to fitness after childbirth. They will be running as a relay team.
The programme is part of Edinburgh Leisure's Active Communities initiative. The group will join 55 other people participating on behalf of Edinburgh Leisure at the Marathon events.
Chio Martinez, one of the relay team members, said: "Like many people looking for a fundraising challenge in 2025, I signed up to raise funds for Active Communities and Edinburgh Leisure by taking part in the Edinburgh Marathon Festival.
"Of course, there are lots of other big-name charities out there, but funding for smaller projects is under threat in Edinburgh, and this is my way of giving something back.
'Active Mums has been a lifeline for me and other mothers with young babies and toddlers. It's not just about fitness—it's created a community where I've formed meaningful connections, established a vital routine, and found reasons to leave the house on those challenging days.
"The programme offers clear fitness milestones in a judgment-free environment where we all understand the unique struggles of postpartum wellness. It's given me the confidence to take on the EMF challenge—something I never would have considered before. We're all excited to step up to this challenge together, and it's become the perfect motivation to keep moving forward on our fitness journeys."
The Active Mums relay team has already exceeded their fundraising target and have raised £945, which is 150% of their £600 fundraising target.
The marathon fundraising effort comes as Edinburgh Leisure marks the second Seriously Social Week from May 16 to 12 as part of a national campaign showcasing the work of charities that prioritise people over profit, connect communities, and promote health, happiness, and creativity for all ages and abilities.
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Organised by Community Leisure UK, each day of Seriously Social Week highlights how organisations like Edinburgh Leisure create social impact and foster healthier, happier communities. The campaign focuses on five key themes: health and wellbeing, community, inclusion, employment and skills, and the environment.
Jen Holland, CEO of Edinburgh Leisure, stated: "We are proud to be part of a network of charities operating with a social conscience, delivering social good through public leisure services. Our core mission is about purpose, not profit, helping people first.
"We support Edinburgh in becoming healthier and happier with quality health and wellbeing services for everyone, regardless of age or ability, including those with serious health conditions, which helps reduce the financial burden on the NHS."
To donate to Edinburgh Leisure's Active Mums or other Active Communities programmes, you can visit here: www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/donate-online
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