Have you ever seen a banana run? Well, you may spot one taking on the ASICS Manchester Half this October.

Behind the banana costume will be Ana, who is taking on the ASICS Manchester Half in memory of her friend Cláudio, whose favourite fruit inspired her outfit choice.

For Ana, the ASICS Manchester Half is about much more than completing 13.1 miles. It’s a chance to celebrate Cláudio’s life, honour his memory and raise money for Moya Cole Hospice, the place that provided such important care and support to him and his family.

Remembering Cláudio

According to Ana, Cláudio was someone who brought laughter wherever he went. “He was so funny, his laugh was so loud and contagious,” Ana said. “He had such a good heart and it was impossible not to have fun around him.”

A friend who would always be there for others, Cláudio was the kind of person who would help without hesitation. “If you needed something he would not even think twice, he would help you. He was a good friend, a good man.”

Ana also remembers his stubborn side, something that was part of what made him who he was. “He was extremely stubborn as well! He reminded me of an old man sometimes. And I always used to say that to him.”

The support from Moya Cole that meant everything

During Cláudio’s final days, he was cared for by Moya Cole Hospice. It was during Covid, when restrictions meant only two people were allowed to visit. Despite such a difficult time, Ana says the hospice team did everything they could to support Cláudio and his family.

“They did their best to allow his dad to come and say goodbye. It was such a hard time for the whole world, and they did an amazing job in letting him say goodbye. That was everything.”

The care Cláudio received has stayed with Ana and inspired her to give back. “They deal with this every day. And they have so much love in their hearts. They are so respectful and gracious in making space for people and their families.”

Running for those who can’t

After stepping away from running for a few years, Ana decided it was time to put her shoes back on but this time with a bigger purpose.

“Being alive is a privilege,” she said. “Being here today, and being able to help and to use something like running, which has been such a mental escape for me. I know it’s time to put the shoes back on and run for those who can’t.”

When training gets tough, Ana keeps reminding herself why she started. “Knowing that this is not for me. This is for others. That one day it will be me, and that we all deserve to go surrounded by love.”

Keeping Cláudio’s memory alive

For Ana, crossing the finish line in October will be a chance to honour someone who meant so much to her. “It’s about keeping Cláudio’s memory alive. He is no longer here, but he never left us.”

And while Ana thinks Cláudio might have some thoughts about her race-day outfit, she knows he would appreciate the reason behind it. “I’m sure he would think I’m crazy, but he would be very grateful and happy to know this was for him.”

You can support Ana the banana’s ASICS Manchester Half challenge and help her keep Cláudio’s memory alive by visiting her fundraising page here. You can also join Moya Cole Hospice Team at the ASICS Manchester Half and take on your own fundraising challenge, helping the hospice continue to provide vital care, comfort and support for patients and their families. Find out more and sign up here.