Key Points
- Participant Information: Caitlin Duncombe, 26 years old and residing in Hanwell, is getting ready to take part in the Royal Parks Half Marathon.
- Medical History: She developed rheumatoid arthritis at 17 years of age due to pain and weakness in her wrists. She still experiences chronic pain daily.
- The Race: She will participate in this race along with her partner, Ashley Simons, 29, residing in Nottingham, on Sunday, 11 October 2026.
- Training Information: They started training by being able to run only 3km together because of Caitlin’s health condition but now they are able to cover distances of 15km and 18km.
- Fundraiser: They were introduced to each other when Caitlin was studying for her master’s degree in Leeds and have managed to raise close to £900 for Arthritis UK.
uk/local/ealing/hanwell/">Hanwell, Ealing (West London Times) October 07, 2026 — A young Hanwell resident navigating daily chronic pain caused by rheumatoid arthritis is gearing up to complete a 13.1-mile endurance challenge to raise funds for medical research and support.
Why is a Hanwell resident with rheumatoid arthritis running a half marathon?
Caitlin Duncombe, 26, originally from Australia and currently residing in Hanwell, is preparing to take on the upcoming Royal Parks Half Marathon alongside her partner, Ashley Simons, 29, of Nottingham. As reported by Priya Gupta of Ealing.News, the challenge—scheduled for this Sunday, 11 October 2026—aims to raise vital funds and awareness for the charity Arthritis UK.
Having been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis at the young age of 17 after experiencing severe pain and a sudden loss of strength in her wrists, Ms Duncombe has spent nearly a decade adapting to the physical barriers imposed by her condition. As highlighted by Priya Gupta of Ealing.News, chronic pain remains a central facet of her daily routine. Reflecting on her physical reality, Caitlin Duncombe stated to Priya Gupta of Ealing.News that “chronic pain is still a big part of my life; at this point I don’t think I truly know what life without pain looks like.” She added:
“I’ve become very good at adapting and getting on with things, so I don’t think people always realise when I’m struggling.”
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How did the couple prepare for the 13.1-mile London course?
Training for a major long-distance running event presents significant hurdles for any athlete, but for someone living with a degenerative inflammatory joint disease, the physical toll is doubly severe. According to the report by Priya Gupta of Ealing.News, Ms Duncombe and Mr Simons—who first crossed paths while Ms Duncombe was undertaking her master’s degree studies in Leeds—initially faced major difficulties completing even short distances. Because of Caitlin’s joint pain, they initially struggled to run just 3km together.
Through careful pacing, perseverance, and physical adaptation, the pair successfully scaled up their stamina. As noted by Priya Gupta of Ealing.News, their rigorous preparation has culminated in successful training runs reaching between 15km and 18km, paving the way for Sunday’s half-marathon event. Through their dedication to the cause, the couple has successfully raised almost £900 for Arthritis UK.
Background of the Development
Rheumatoid arthritis is a long-term autoimmune condition that causes pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints—most commonly affecting the hands, wrists, and feet. Unlike osteoarthritis, which is typically associated with wear and tear, rheumatoid arthritis occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints. Diagnosed frequently in early adulthood or middle age, it requires continuous management through medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle adjustments. Fundraising events such as the Royal Parks Half Marathon serve as critical lifelines for organizations like Arthritis UK, which relies on public donations to fund scientific research, improve patient care pathways, and provide essential support networks for the millions of people in the UK living with musculoskeletal conditions.
This inspiring development highlights the resilience of individuals managing chronic illnesses and brings localized visibility to the challenges faced by those living with invisible disabilities. For the local community in Hanwell and the broader readership across Ealing, stories of personal perseverance against medical adversity can foster a deeper understanding and empathy toward residents coping with chronic pain. Furthermore, heightened public awareness surrounding grassroots fundraising campaigns directly benefits national health charities, potentially increasing donations and driving community engagement in health and wellbeing initiatives across West London.
