Blythe House Hospice is a purpose-built hospice and respite centre in the heart of the Peak District providing care and support for patients, families and carers across the High Peak community who are affected by cancer or life-limiting illnesses. 

In early 2018, at the same time that my wife Ali and I found out we were going to have our first baby, my mother-in-law Julie was told the devastating news that she had cancer. Since then, Julie has undergone intense surgery and brutal chemotherapy, radiotherapy and biological therapy and will continue her treatment until Summer 2021. Fortunately her prognosis is positive.

Amidst the constant stream of appointments and intense treatment here, there and everywhere, Blythe House has supported Julie and our family from her very first meeting with them; providing her with weekly living well services including activities and opportunities to meet others who share similar experiences (call it a 'respite day' if you wish), as well as practical help and advice. Blythe House and the staff there have helped Julie be herself, as well as a Mum to Ali and a Nanna to Callum, throughout her battle. 

To thank Blythe House for everything they have done and continue to do for Julie, our family and other families similar to ours, I want to put myself out there and complete the biggest challenge of my life whilst raising vital funds for the charity... I have secured my place in the 2020 London Marathon and will be running the 26.2 miles for Blythe House Hospice on Sunday 26th April 2020. 

**Edit** 

As you will know, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the marathon was postponed until 4th October 2020 before being called off again by the organisers. Unfortunately I will no longer be running in 2020 but I am hopeful that my place will be carried forward to the 2021 London Marathon on 3rd October 2021. 

Anything you are able to donate will be hugely appreciated and will go such a long way towards helping strong warriors like my mother-in-law and families like ours and will make my training regime that little bit more bearable!

**Edit** 

Your donations mean more to Blythe than ever before. 2020 has been a terrible year for everyone but thanks to your kind donations, Blythe has been able to continue providing such vital services to families that rely on them. Without your support this couldn't have happened; thank you. 

Whilst a lot of people are feeling not just the emotional, physical and mental strain, but also the financial strain due to COVID-19, if you are able to spare any money at all to help spur me on & reach my target, both Blythe and myself will be extremely grateful.

Many thanks

Scott