Fun Run to raise money for Cardiff student who lost limbs to sepsis taking place on Sunday

A Fun Run is being held this Sunday to raise money for Cardiff student who lost limbs to sepsis.

Cardiff University Athletics and Cardiff Med Soc are organising a Fun Run to fundraise for Cardiff University medical student, Lily.

Lily faced life-changing circumstances after an infection severely affected her circulation requiring surgery to amputate all four limbs-above the knees and through the elbows. Lily is a third year medical student and athlete at Cardiff and member of both Athletics and Med Soc societies.

The run will take place in Bute Park on Sunday May 18th, meeting at the Secret Garden 11am.

It’s only a £5 donation to attend with all proceeds to go to Lily and Limb Power Charity.

Whether you walk, jog or run- your participation will make a real difference and all abilities and everyone is welcome.

Vice president of Cardiff Med Soc, Bryony Tuck, told The Cardiff Tab: “We’d love for you to join us! Whether you walk, jog, or run- your participation will make a real difference. All abilities/anyone and everyone welcome! Let’s come together as a Cardiff community to support one of our own when it matters most.”

Lily, a kind-hearted, active, and optimistic 23-year-old medical student at Cardiff University, was rushed to hospital on 14 January 2025 with flu-like symptoms. Her condition rapidly deteriorated, and she was soon diagnosed with meningococcal septicaemia – a fast-acting and severe bacterial infection that led to septic shock.

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Despite experiencing two cardiac arrests, Lily survived thanks to the expert care of the team at University Hospital Wales. She remained in a coma for two weeks, eventually showing signs of recovery. However, an MRI revealed multiple infarcts in her brain, spleen, and liver, leaving the full extent of the long-term impact uncertain.

The infection severely affected her circulation, ultimately requiring surgery to amputate all four limbs-above the knees and through the elbows. These life-saving procedures were carried out with the support of the outstanding Plastics Team at Morriston Hospital in Swansea. Lily’s family, friends and community are now rallying to ensure she has every opportunity to recover and thrive.

Before falling ill, Lily was passionate about swimming, running, and surfing, activities that were vital to her well-being. Advanced prosthetics provided by private companies will give her the mobility and independence to return to the sports she loves, which will play a key role in her physical and emotional recovery.

Funds raised will go towards prosthetics, adaptations to her home, as well as the physiotherapy and rehabilitation she will need on her journey ahead.

Any remaining donations will be given to Limb Power, a charity that supports amputees and those with limb impairments through sport, physical activity, and the arts- helping them lead active and fulfilling lives.

The run will take place in Bute Park on Sunday May 18th, meeting at the Secret Garden 11:00am.

Feature Image via Instagram.