A Southport couple are running the AJ Bell Great North Run this weekend for their one year old daughter Dorothy and everyone affected by Cystic Fibrosis.
Jennifer Berrett, who runs Babyballet Southport, Formby & Crosby and DBA School of Dance, and her husband, Spencer, will head to Newcastle to take on the 13 mile challenge this Sunday (7th September 2025).
All funds raised will go to the Cystic Fibrosis Trust with people able to donate via their fundraising page here: Cystic Fibrosis Trust: Jennifer’s page
They said: “We can’t quite believe it – race week is here!
“This Sunday, Spencer and I will be taking on the Great North Run, a half marathon in Newcastle, running for our daughter Dorothy and everyone affected by Cystic Fibrosis.
“We’ve been completely blown away by the generosity and support we’ve received so far – so much so that we’ve already hit our original fundraising target! Thank you to everyone who has donated, shared, and cheered us on.
“Because of you, we’ve decided to raise the bar and increase our target – every extra pound goes towards making a real difference.
“Training is officially done, and now it’s all about race day.
“Every mile we run will be for Dorothy, and for all the CF warriors out there. Together, we can make change happen.”
The couple have been inspired to take on the Great North Run by their youngest daughter.
They said: “We are running for Cystic Fibrosis and our precious daughter, Dorothy, who is currently 1 year old. Dorothy is our youngest child, and the baby sister to Felicity (8) and Freddie (7). At just two weeks old, Dorothy was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis through the routine blood spot (heel prick) test.
“Since her diagnosis, the Cystic Fibrosis Trust has been an invaluable source of support and information for our family. From providing guidance on how to talk to family and friends, to offering the latest research, campaigns, and information on clinical trials, the Trust has helped us navigate a challenging journey. They’ve also connected us with other parents facing the same battles, offering advice and support that has been critical in these early months.
“Without the Cystic Fibrosis Trust and our incredible CF team, we would feel lost in an incredibly scary and uncertain place. But they’ve given us hope, and we are determined to do our part to raise awareness and funds for this important cause.
“Through this run, we want to show our children that, as a family, we are a team — we can face challenges head-on, and together, we will do hard things for Dorothy’s future.”
The AJ Bell Great North Run, the world’s biggest and best half marathon, is known for its unbeatable atmosphere and the warm North East welcome.
The event attracts 60,000 dedicated runners and raises millions of pounds for important causes.
The Great North Run is more than just a race — it’s a chance for people from all walks of life to come together, support each other, and make a difference.
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