On Sunday 26th April, (what would have been London Marathon day, and also Cecelia’s 15 month “birthday”) I’m doing 26 challenges for Martin House. They won’t quite be marathon standard but it is going to take me longer than running a marathon to complete them all. Follow my progress on Instagram stories by searching @esme_301 - hopefully I will keep you entertained at least. 

To see videos of the challenges, visit: www.instagram.com/esme_301/ Simply click on the 2.6 Challenge and 2.6 Supporters highlights at the top of my profile.

You can read Cecelia’s full story here: https://www.martinhouse.org.uk/cecelia 

Our daughter Cecelia was diagnosed with 1.p36 genetic condition a few weeks after she was born. At six months old it was confirmed that she would likely be life limited and eligible for referral to Martin House. 

As a family we were able to access planned respite care, which allowed James and I to have a much needed break. The staff got to know her and helped us put together her Advance Care Plan which ultimately enabled us to keep Cecelia out of hospital and give her the best possible death at home that we could wish for. We took Cecelia to Martin House when she died to stay in a little air conditioned bedroom while we planned her funeral but still be close to her. We continue to receive bereavement support from this amazing charity - please help us to ensure other families can be helped too! 

You can read Cecelia’s full story here: https://www.martinhouse.org.uk/cecelia 

Hospices are an integral part of the healthcare system and have an essential role in the response to COVID-19. With only 10% of Martin House running costs coming from statutory sources, and fundraising losses projected to be in the many millions of pounds, your donation right now is particularly appreciated. It means that theycan continue to offer this vital care to those children and families most at risk during this time, and be there, fully, once again for those who need them when the situation eventually settles.