“Every day do something that makes you feel uncomfortable.”

From Friday 19^th June, - Sunday 21^st June, I’m going to take on the 4/4/48 challenge whereby I will be running 4 miles, every 4 hours for 48 hours. (yes, that’s 48 miles in 2 days).

You’re probably thinking I’m bonkers and are wondering why I’m doing it, not to mention when I am going to sleep! Working from home means I have more time on my hands and has made me think that I need to step out my comfort zone and challenge myself to do something that matters. What better way to spend a weekend, than challenging myself both mentally and physically? Sleep-wise, the faster I run, the faster I’ll be home, and the more I can sleep in between runs. Sounds simple, right?!

Given I’ve decided to put myself through hell for 48 hours, I thought I may as well raise some money for a worthwhile cause that’s close to my heart. I have chosen Grief Encounter, a charity that supports bereaved children and their families to help alleviate the pain caused by the death of someone close.

Having lost a parent at the age of 18, I have decided to do this in memory of my Dad Stephen and Grandpa Ivan, and I thought what better way than to finish this challenge on Father’s Day (poetic right). It’s hard to put into words how losing a parent at a young age makes you feel, and whilst everyone’s experience is different, the hardest part for me is the inner sadness that sometimes hits me, completely randomly, that I often can’t explain or control. For the first few years, I struggled with this a lot, but over time and with the support of great people, friends and family around me, the pain and challenges have become easier to control and the negative emotions and feelings have turned to more positive thoughts and memories, to the point where I am now very comfortable in myself. It is this feeling of comfort and acceptance that I hope others, through your donations can achieve.

All money raised, will go to helping children dealing with the day-to-day pain and general challenges, which will have a great impact in helping people to develop, grow and live their lives.

To prepare myself for my 2am running shifts, I have even splashed
out on a head torch, so you’d better believe I’m serious about this!