2017 Challenge… Come At Me!

Can’t believe I am actually saying this but… “I’m running the London Marathon”!!!

When I started running I never EVER imagined I’d enter a marathon or even want to, but after 8 half marathons, which have incidentally not got easier, it now somehow seems like a good idea.

It means so much to me to have been given this incredible opportunity; Virgin Money London Marathon is a runners dream, but along with the challenge of training for this and actually running on the day, the most important part of this task is raising as much money as possible for Rainbows – the hospice for children and young people. This charity is so close to my heart and here’s why…

Sadly, some children do not live long enough. Rainbows is here to support those who have been diagnosed with a life limiting condition by being there for them and the people who love them most. The hospice is the only one of its kind in the East Midlands and all services are provided free of charge. Rainbows offers children, young people and their families the chance to build memories together and supports them when facing emotional and physical challenges, while allowing them to make the most of their time constrained life.

Ali’s story…

“You never imagine you will be the parent who is told that your child has a terminal illness, that it is likely he has less than 12 months to live, and that you need to treasure every day as though it's his last. And, when it is your child who has that devastating condition, somehow you have to find the strength to keep going - to make the time you do have as a family as special as it can be.

When William was diagnosed with Miller Dieker Syndrome in January 2011 at 7 months old, our family was determined to make the most of every precious moment we had together.  However, the reality of caring for a child with a very complex medical condition - who needed many different medications throughout the day and night, who had to be fed via a tube, needed constant care and had no consistent sleeping pattern - meant that often just making it through the day without a medical emergency or hospital admission was all we could hope for.  Things improved so much for us once we became a Rainbows family.

The amazing people at Rainbows Hospice came into our lives a year after William's diagnosis.  We were so nervous before we stepped through the door, but almost immediately we felt at home, and knew we had found a place where William and the rest of the family could relax and be supported, where our views would be respected and where the staff would be able to deal with all William's needs, as well as his occasional love of squishy cuddles!  As his condition deteriorated and the hospital doctors were unable to manage his pain, it was the Hospice doctor who found the right medications to take the pain away, meaning we could focus on giving William the best quality of life he could have.  When it became clear William was slipping away, Rainbows was the perfect place for us to be together for his last moments.

Lauren, we think you are truly amazing for taking on the London Marathon for Rainbows.  A marathon is such a big, scary commitment and the fact you are doing this incredible challenge, helping children, young people and their families access the care, love, expertise and support that Rainbows provide, means so much!!  We wish you all the success in the world, through all your training and fundraising, and I know William sends his love too! xx”