Hello,

I had a wonderful best friend. Her name was Rhiannon and I met her at university, where we soon became very close. She the funniest, most beautiful and caring friend I have ever had.

Everyone always expressed how truly lovely they thought she was. My mum always said "so when are you next seeing your lovely Rhi?" and I would say "next weekend, don't worry!".

Our lovely Rhi's life was going perfectly. She was pursuing her teacher training, she lived in her own little cottage off her family's house, she had a lovely boyfriend, a caring family, and she knew how much her friends loved her. Then something tragically awful happened. Rhi was on her way to her placement one day on the 16th March, listening to her Harry Potter audio tape as she always did (she had got a good deal on the book store so I think she downloaded all 7 - classic Rhi). But then she had a terrible collision with another car, causing critical brain injuries following. She never regained consciousness. She died on the 22nd March. There isn't much else to say. Although I am truly heartbroken and devastated for her family.

I could go on telling you how much I miss her, but instead I will tell you a little bit about what I understand about the Rhiannon Jade Smith Memorial Trust. The trust was set up by her family, aiming to donate funds to various charities, including research into brain injuries, supporting PGCE students and local schools.

I can't contribute too much to the fund, so I am going to run the Cardiff half marathon to raise money. It will be a challenge. But I accept it! Hopefully if I get enough sponsors, although she will always be in my heart, I will still be able to give the memory of Rhi what she deserves.

Anything you can give would be so appreciated. Knowing Rhi, she would be happy with the smallest amount. But I want to go a bit further than that!

Thank you so much for anything you can give to the fund. Let the training begin!

Love, Angharad xxx