Throughout the month of April I have set myself the target of running a total of 400km (approximately 250 miles). The equivalent distance of Biddulph to Dover (or just shy of 10 marathons combined!!). I completed a similar challenge a few years ago, for a total of 300km, which pushed me to my limits (so I might be biting off more than I can chew this time around!!) However I wanted a challenge worthy of the cause I’ve chosen to raise money for.

The charity is a newly formed one, set up by good friends of mine who are bravely attempting to turn their darkest hour into a positive platform that hopefully will benefit others in the future. The charity is called “aiM” and is in memory of their beautiful daughter Mia, who sadly passed away at the end of 2022, at the tender age of 8. Mia had Strep A, which quickly developed into Sepsis. It goes without saying that this is every parents worse nightmare and I am full of admiration for the strength they have found to keep moving forward, through what must be the most unimaginable pain.

“aiM” has two main objectives. Firstly, to raise awareness of the signs and symptoms of Sepsis. The earlier it can identified and diagnosed, the better the chance of treatment and a positive outcome. The second aim is to provide professional support for those who require immediate help when going through similar pain and bereavement. The NHS is currently at breaking point, and the waiting lists for such help can be a minimum of 6 months. Parents in these circumstances need access to support much quicker, and aiM sets out to provide that outlet when it’s needed.

I do appreciate times are difficult for a lot of people at the moment. I am setting myself this challenge to push myself, which will hopefully convince others to donate to this worthy cause, no matter how little. And if you cannot donate, then please share this page and keep spreading the word of “aiM”, so that it reaches a wider audience. Know the signs!! Always ask “could it be Sepsis?”

Thank you.

For Soron, Kate and Beau. And in memory of beautiful Mia. ❤️🌈