Adferiad’s Cheryl Williams is preparing to take on the 2027 London Marathon, with a goal of raising £2,000 for Adferiad as she tackles one of the world’s most iconic running events.
Cheryl is Adferiad’s Strategic Lead for Gambling and Other Harms and Registered Manager of Parkland Place Old Colwyn, our 16-bed residential rehabilitation service.
Through her work, she sees first-hand the impact the right support can have on people affected by addiction, mental ill health and other complex life challenges.
Running the London Marathon has always been a personal ambition for Cheryl, and in April 2027 she will take on the famous 26.2-mile course while raising money for Adferiad.
With months of training ahead, Rhodri Harrison from Adferiad’s Communications Team caught up with Cheryl about why she is taking on the challenge and what will motivate her towards the finish line.
Hi Cheryl, thanks for speaking with us. Could you start by telling us a little about yourself and your role at Adferiad?
“I’m the Strategic Lead for Gambling and Other Harms and Registered Manager of Parkland Place Old Colwyn, a 16-bed rehabilitation service.
“My role focuses on raising awareness of gambling disorder and responding to the growing impact of ketamine use among young people. I’m passionate about promoting understanding, reducing stigma and supporting the development of effective prevention, education and recovery initiatives.
“I’m proud to contribute to an organisation that supports people affected by mental ill health, substance use, addiction and other complex life challenges.”
What inspired you to sign up for the London Marathon?
“Running the London Marathon has always been a personal ambition of mine. I wanted to take on a challenge that would push me physically and mentally while also giving me an opportunity to make a meaningful difference.
“The marathon felt like the perfect way to combine those goals.”
You’ve decided to use the challenge to raise money for Adferiad. Why was that important to you?
"I see first-hand how important Adferiad’s work is and the difference that the right support can make.
“Working here has shown me some of the challenges people face, but more importantly, it has shown me how the right support can help people rebuild their lives.
“Fundraising is my way of giving something extra beyond my day-to-day role. It gives every training run and every difficult mile a greater purpose, and knowing that the money raised will support Adferiad’s work is a huge source of motivation.”
What does Adferiad mean to you personally as well as professionally?
"Professionally, Adferiad is an organisation whose values and mission I’m proud to represent. It’s committed to treating people with dignity, recognising their strengths and helping them move towards the lives they want.
“Personally, it means being part of a compassionate community that believes recovery and positive change are possible. That makes taking on this challenge in Adferiad’s name especially meaningful.”
How is the training going so far, and what challenges are you expecting along the way?
"Training is going well, although balancing longer runs with work and everyday commitments will be challenging at times.
“Some of the training will be through the winter months, so I’ll be faced with dark early morning runs and cold and damp weather.
“I’m learning to be consistent, listen to my body and focus on progress rather than expecting every run to be perfect.”
When you picture marathon day, what are you most looking forward to?
“I’m most looking forward to experiencing the incredible atmosphere, seeing the crowds along the route and sharing the day with thousands of other runners.
“Crossing the finish line will be a special moment, but I think the support along the way and the knowledge that I’m running for Adferiad will make the whole experience unforgettable.”
What are you hoping the money you raise will help achieve?
“I hope the money will help Adferiad continue providing vital, person-centred support to people and families who need it.
“Every donation, whatever its size, can contribute to services that give people hope, practical help and opportunities for recovery.”
Finally, what would you say to everyone supporting you as you prepare to take on the 26.2 miles?
“Taking on a marathon is a major personal challenge, but it represents something bigger than the race itself.
“It’s about raising awareness, supporting Adferiad’s work and showing that difficult goals can be reached one step at a time.
“I’m incredibly grateful to everyone who donates, shares my page or supports me throughout the journey. Your encouragement will help carry me through the training and all 26.2 miles on the day.”
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