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Having obtained a ballot place for the London Marathon I have chosen to run for St Mary's Hospice, Ulverston, in memory of my late Father-in-Law Robert Hodgson (photo below). Having spent a short time in hospital Robert spent his final days at the Hospice. During this difficult and emotional time the care, devotion, respect and dignity shown to Robert by the staff, nurses and carers at the Hospice was faultless and helped the family beyond words.

Raising funds for the Hospice is just my way of giving something back and on Marathon day I shall be wearing the two flowers that symbolise the Hospice; the Forget-Me-Not and the Sunflower. The Forget-Me-Not will be in memory of Robert and the Sunflower will be my way of paying respect to all the other patients that have sadly passed at the Hospice. If you would like the name of a loved one placed on a petal of the Sunflower please place it in the comments section when you donate.

Training - I started running a couple of years ago and I remember how proud I felt by completing a full minute without stopping! Fast forward to 2016 where I completed my first Marathon at Blackpool so I know through training, sheer determination and in memory of Robert and others I'll complete the London Marathon.

I feel lucky to have been given the opportunity to enjoy this fantastic experience, soak up the atmosphere and to be able to run with thousands of people who like myself will be raising funds for such worthy causes.

Your support is much appreciated.

Babs x

UPDATE: I successfully completed the London Marathon and what a truly fantastic day it was.  From the thousands of fellow runners to the supporters who lined the street clapping, shouting your name, supplying sweets and playing music, it was amazing.  It was an unforgettable experience and a day I'll never forget.  It was also a reflective day, I thought of Robert, spending his last days at St Mary's and of the fantastic care and devotion given to him by them.  I also thought of fellow patients and how St Mary's means so much to family and friends of loved ones who spend time there.  Running for St Mary's kept me motivated and focused along the course until I reached the finish line and collected that well deserved medal.  I thank everyone for their support and donations (in particular my husband, E, and great friend Elisabeth) it means so much to St Mary's and I.  Thank you, love Babs x

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