I am honoured to have been selected to run in the 2017 London Marathon, a race I have wished to partake in for many years and with admiration (and a little envy) for the runners who put themselves through such an incredible challenge. Although this will be just that… A challenge,  I have a very inspiring person to motivate me and get me through this test of endurance…

My dear Nanny Peg, a warm, witty woman, a lady of impeccable style and grace. Always there with a cuddle and a sympathetic ear, helping my Mum to look after my brothers and I as we grew up. Someone who loved to socialise in her old age with her friends nearly every weekend enjoying a few drops of whisky over a game of scrabble. Who, even as she aged and well into her early 80’s was very active, taking the opportunity to show off her hand stands every Christmas and her uncanny ability to touch her toes without even the slightest bend in her knees.

Nan was diagnosed with dementia in 2010, and although a shock to all of us, not least her, she put up an incredible fight. Over the 6 years that followed. It was saddening to see how this illness gradually affected her and slowly stole her from her loved ones. My mum and dad did everything they could to care for her and even moved Nan into their home to care for as best they could. As the disease took hold, it became increasingly difficult for my parents. Eventually my family came to the heart-breaking decision to move my Nan into a care home. 

The picture in my profile is of my final memory of Nan, where I introduced her to her second granddaughter. It was amazing to see how both Lily and Rosie brought Nan back to life and we saw a glimmer of her old self for a fleeting moment but one which we will all cherish.

Nanny Peg eventually found peace when she passed away in June of 2016. That is why I am running the London Marathon. In memory of my Nanny Peg and to highlight the brilliant job my Mum did of caring for her. Raising money for the Alzheimer's Society would be a great privilege for me and would mean a lot to my family.