Hello! My name is Isabel, and I am thrilled to share that I will be running the 2025 London Marathon with JRS UK. I am originally from just outside Washington, D.C.; however, I have lived in the Canary Islands, Spain and now London since graduating from university in May 2022. This past year, I completed my MSc in Public Health at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine. Ultimately, I hope to adopt a public health approach to clinical medicine as a physician.
I am particularly passionate about migrant health. My early schooling first ignited this interest. From kindergarten to eighth grade, I attended a state-run Spanish immersion school. Many of my classmates came from Spanish-speaking households and were first-generation Americans. Further along in my studies, I had the opportunity to work as a medical interpreter at a clinic in Hilton Head, South Carolina. The majority of patients at the clinic were undocumented, refugees or asylum seekers. Interpreting for these patients made me acutely aware of the obstacles migrants face when it comes to accessing medical care.
Through these experiences, I came to understand that health extends beyond the clinic. Individual well-being is much more than the absence of disease. I deeply admire the work of JRS UK in ensuring refugee needs are met and providing a valuable community for those who have been displaced.
I had the privilege of visiting the Hurtado Jesuit Centre recently to see the services JRS UK provides in action, including the provision of food, clothes, and toiletries, and a drama workshop. It was inspiring to witness the strong sense of community fostered at the centre. I am incredibly honoured to support the continuation of this organisation’s efforts as a 2025 London Marathon runner.
Though this will be my first marathon, running has always been a major part of my life. My parents actually met while training for a marathon in the ‘90s! I ran cross country and track throughout secondary school. At the end of the day, I have always loved racing. I cannot wait to take on this new challenge for such a wonderful cause! Thank you for reading and being a part of my journey! I appreciate the support.
Support Isabel’s Marathon fundraising here
Read more about health & food insecurity:
- Destitute and in Danger: people made homeless by the asylum system
- NHS Charging: Made sick, then denied care
- JRS UK calls for change in joint report revealing widespread malnutrition and food insecurity among asylum seekers in London
- “It shouldn’t be this hard to access food” – Nayla’s story
