Our first child, James, died suddenly in his sleep in 2004 when he was just 8 1/2 months old. I am forever thankful for him. His birthday is on 17th April and so by the time I run the TCS London Marathon 2023, he would have been 19. I have been gifted a place into the marathon this time, for which I am so very grateful and as it is also my 50th birthday in May, it seemed appropriate to run in memory of my precious son and for the charity that helped and supported us, many years ago. 

The death of a child presents one of the most poignant and penetrating griefs that anyone is given to bear. It has a profound affect on families and leaves a lasting legacy. I wanted to run to give hope to all those who are called to bear such a grief. 

The Lullaby Trust raises awareness of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), provides expert advice on safer sleep for babies and offers invaluable emotional support for bereaved families. It is my privilege to be able to run for them in 2023.

Thank you all so much in advance for your kind support.