In 2012, my sister lost her daughter, Dora, not long after she was born. You can read her story here: 

https://www.sands.org.uk/about-sands/media-centre/blog/2018/07/sands40-our-beautiful-daughter-dora-anna-mcmahon

My own memories of this time are ones of great sadness and of great hope.

The sadness comes when I think of the grieving parents standing with such bravery and courage next to the coffin containing Dora. The hope comes from seeing this courage, as well as knowing how Sands helped them  - as it helps so many who suffer perhaps this most awful of losses.

Unlike Dora, I have had the gift of time and it’s only right that I find my own way to celebrate her short life and raise some money for Sands.

If you don’t know about the MdS, here’s the best place to learn more:

http://www.marathondessables.com/en/marathon-des-sables-maroc

Any help you can provide, however modest, will help parents who experience loss. It will also help keep me going as I trudge through the Sahara. 

UPDATE 15/4/2019:

Thank you to everyone for your support - emotional, practical and financial. I crossed the finishing line on Friday having enjoyed every moment and knowing, throughout the event, that each step was supported by you  and, at the time, was supporting Sands.