Julia runs half marathon one year after life changing surgery

Just one year after life‑changing surgery to remove her stomach, Julia Herridge from Bath crossed the finish line of the Bath Half Marathon, raising an incredible £1,000 as a way of giving back 

Local teacher Julia took on the 13.1 mile challenge to celebrate her recovery and thank the team at the Bristol Royal Infirmary who supported her through years of complex treatment.  

Eight years ago, Julia was diagnosed with a rare stomach condition later diagnosed as Ménétrier's Disease. Over time, she underwent multiple procedures and relied on ongoing specialist care from the Upper Gastro-Intestinal team at Bristol Royal Infirmary. 

In March 2025, she faced the most significant step yet - the complete removal of her stomach. 
 

Julia’s road to recovery  

“It was a big, daunting surgery with a long recovery,” Julia said. “But I was so well looked after. The medical staff have all been wonderful, from the nurses to the surgical team  - everyone made sure I understood what was happening and helped me through every stage. I felt genuinely cared for.” 

Despite the scale of the operation, Julia began to feel better than she had in years. By late summer she was strong enough to start gentle exercise, beginning with local park runs near her home.  

“I started running in September - just short distances at first. But little by little I realised I could do more,” she said. “I’d never been a serious runner, and with anaemia and my condition it had always been difficult. But this time I felt different. Stronger.”  

Encouraged by her improving health, she gradually increased her distances and decided to take on the Bath Half as both a personal milestone and a heartfelt way to thank the hospital team who cared for her.  

“I thobught it would be a lovely challenge - something positive after such a tough year  - and a way to give back. The BRI looked after me through some really difficult times, so running for the hospital charity just felt right.”  

Recovery hasn’t been without its challenges, but Julia has adapted remarkably well. She eats small, frequent meals and carries snacks on every long run.  

“I’m very lucky with how I’ve recovered. Some people struggle far more. I’ve figured out what works for me - I always have lots of snacks with me, including chocolate on long runs!” she laughed.  

Julia credits her progress not only to medical care, but also to her support network; her close family including her nine year old daughter, friends, colleagues, and the welcoming atmosphere of local running groups, all helping her stay motivated on difficult days. 
 

"THEY HELPED ME GET MY LIFE BACK"

The Bath Half Marathon on 15th March 2026 marked almost exactly one year since her surgery - a powerful and emotional anniversary. 

“It’s amazing to think where I was last March and where I am now,” Julia said. “I still have to be careful with my diet, but I feel fitter than ever. Running has become part of my recovery, and I’m genuinely grateful that I’m able to run at all. Crossing the finish line was quite emotional!”   

Julia completed the race alongside her husband in 1 hour 57 minutes, raising an impressive £1,180 for Bristol & Weston Hospitals Charity. 

“People have been really, really generous; more than I expected,” she said.  

Reflecting on her journey, Julia added: “Having that surgery hanging over me for years was stressful. But the care I received at Bristol Royal Infirmary lifted so much of that anxiety. I’m incredibly thankful to the whole team – the surgeons, the nurses, the dietitians – everyone.   

“They helped me get my life back.” 

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