Phil Holbrook received life-threatening injuries in a car accident in 2012 and was placed in an induced coma whilst his critical condition stabilised. He suffered 30 broken bones and subsequently spent three months in hospital, initially unable to move or speak. Tragically, Phil’s beloved wife Sally lost her life in the crash.

Since returning home on 21 March 2013 and with the continuing support of his friends and family, Phil set his sights on the future. Having previously completed 23 Great North Runs, Phil’s next goal was to start running again. In recent years, Phil had established himself as a regular member of the Hospice’s running team in the annual event. In 2013, he accompanied the team to South Shields and cheered them on, happy to be part of the event, but missing out on the action.

It was Phil’s target to return to the biggest half marathon in the world and for this event he assembled TeamSallyHolbrook, a six-strong team of friends and relatives (including some who were very new to running) in tribute to Phil’s late wife and once again, supporting Phil and Sally’s charity of choice, Alice House Hospice.

The run took place on Phil’s 54th birthday and after an emotional finish, Phil set about collecting in the money pledged to the team, which totalled an incredible £5,050.50 in sponsorship. Phil has reassembled the team for this year’s event and with over ten members and counting, he hopes to beat last year’s fantastic total.

Team Sally’s incredible efforts and Sally’s life have been commemorated when a room in the Hospice was officially named after Sally.

Phil said “I have tried to set targets for myself, which have enabled me to get to where I am today. My relationship with Alice House Hospice, as a fundraiser, stretches back over 25 years and Sally also did several events to support this worthwhile local charity, so I am immensely proud that the Hospice has decided to name a room after her.”