Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

I have known and learnt about a lot of people in my life
that have inspired me in many ways. Claire Miller, my amazing sister in law, probably tops that list.

It is so hard to put into words just how much she inspired
me however I know that those of you that knew her will know exactly what I mean when I say (and I'm sure I'm not the only one) I was inspired and moved by her determination to live life to the full.

In the English Dictionary the definition of Vivacious reads: lively,
animated, full of life, spirited, high-spirited, effervescent, bubbling,
bubbly, ebullient, buoyant, sparkling, scintillating, light-hearted, carefree,
happy-go-lucky, jaunty, merry, happy, jolly, joyful, full of fun, full of the
joys of spring, cheery, cheerful, perky, sunny, airy, breezy, bright,
enthusiastic, irrepressible, vibrant, vivid, vital, zestful, energetic,
dynamic, vigorous, full of vim and vigour, lusty; to all that knew Claire,
I'm sure you’ll agree this describes her perfectly.

Claire fought a courageous battle with breast cancer after being diagnosed in 2001. She never faltered. She took it in her stride and to anyone on the outside they would not even have known she had it. After a strong fight she had a period of time where she was clear however sadly 2 years ago it  came back in the form of spine cancer. Cancer is cruel and unforgiving however Claire, even until the end, kept her positive persona and amazed everyone with her strength of courage. Determined would also be a perfect description of Claire. Less than 72 hours before she died she insisted on going to the cinema
to watch a film she desperately wanted to see. Whilst on the outside she never showed how poorly she was, she was very poorly. Throughout her long battle with cancer Macmillan supported, comforted, advised, counselled, and provided an array of help that only they have the skill to do. They not only provided support to Claire but extended their kindness and knowledge to the family. I know how much Claire thought of her Macmillan nurse Emma, and what an important role she played not just during and at the end, but afterwards by providing a continued support network.

Everyone has, or knows someone that has, lost someone through this heartless disease. That time can be some of the darkest days you’ll know and to have a shining light in the form of the Macmillan nurses is
priceless. It is such a painful and emotional time for both the patient and the people around them and I know that the support provided by Macmillan is inimitable. I cannot praise them enough for what they do.  

Over the years I have run a couple of events for Claire, the last one being the Wirral Half Marathon. Claire always sent me texts of encouragement and something that always made me stop and think was how she
would always thank me. She knew the money I raised wouldn't necessarily help her, but it would help others in the future, another wonderful display of her nature. The last run I did was a half marathon (the furthest I had ever run) and after I swore I would never do it again as it was one of the hardest things I have done, and now I find myself joining team Macmillan for the Chester Half Marathon. Claire made me realise that actually running a half marathon is a walk in the park compared to what she went through and so knowing how much Macmillan did for her I want to take a leaf out of Claire’s book and give something back to help others. Claire won’t be texting me this time but I already know she is watching me and laughing her socks off
at my profanities used during training.

Any donations, no matter how big or small, will be so gratefully received to help this fantastic charity.

Thank you :-)