In October 2018 my dear and close friend Francesca collapsed and died during a family holiday in Sri Lanka. Little did I know that this photograph, taken a few months earlier on her birthday, would be the last one of us together.

We first met at primary school and bonded in a life-long friendship when we trained together at the Eastbourne Gazette & Herald. She was a truly remarkable person; totally selfless, kind and generous. In short, she was the sister I never had and, along with many others, I miss her terribly.

A fellow animal lover, she adopted two kittens from Raystede and was a keen supporter of the charity's work caring for animals - many rescued from cruelty, neglect and abuse - and rehoming them. I'm running the Brighton Marathon for Raystede in her memory and any donation would be hugely appreciated.

Thank you so much.

Jeannine

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.