2022

3 years ago, with the loss of my much loved mum in law so fresh, London Marathon training for Macmillan Cancer ‘take 1’ began. The 40th race in my 40th year. It felt like such a positive way to extend her legacy.  

But it wasn’t meant to be and we could never have foreseen the effect a global pandemic would have on all our lives. A new normal. 

In the last 3 years, cancer has become all too prevalent in my life. My wonderful Dad and 3 of my very best friends. People I love, and countless others, all receiving treatment for this cruel and indiscriminate disease. I’d do anything to change that. Anything.

When life feels muddled, the answer for me is often a long trail run. I run for both my physical and mental health but it means so much more to run for the people that I love too. 

A 3 year wait for an April London Marathon has given me renewed motivation. I feel huge gratitude to be in a position to run, to once again plaster these pages with Patty’s beautiful smile, and raise more funds in her name. 

London Marathon 2023, I am coming for you 👊🏼. All support is so very much appreciated 💚❤️

Written in October 2019

Watching the strength and bravery that my amazing mum in law showed in the 25 years that she beat cancer has inspired me more than anything else in my life. Watching her get up with a warm smile and the most incredible positive outlook, doing whatever she could for others, even in the most excruciating pain, taught me that anything is possible.  It really will stay with me always, and it is something that I hope I will pass on to my children - to whenever possible, make the most of every minute.  And to always help others when you can. 

The help and support and comfort that Patty received from Macmillan made a huge difference and she was always so grateful. And we her family are too.  I believe that the support she had made her more positive, and that is what gave us more time with her. 

On those cold dark mornings when I get out of bed to run, I will think of my beautiful mum in law, and how proud she would be. Because she would be talking and showing off about this, I can hear her saying now "Well I've got this week's topic".  I want my marathon to extend Patty's legacy, and I want to inspire my children like she inspired me.