On 21 April I will be running the London Marathon in memory/inspiration of my close family friend Chris who was killed by the terrorists who kidnapped him and held him in Nigeria for almost 12 months.

 

It’s funny the things life spits at you that slowly chip and chip away at our innocence.  Even after 30 years on this planet you think you’re an adult and ready for anything. I am tough, so grown up. I work in Canary Wharf, I am a commuter!! 

 

Then BAM.  Your world and beliefs are turned upside down, inside out and thrown up all over the rose tinted glasses I often find myself looking through. Your heart breaks. A piece of your soul dies.

 

By running the marathon, I know I can’t bring him back or ease his mother, father, brother or sisters pain, but I can help to raise money and awareness for Chris’s charity, Amnesty International. I find it rather fitting that the charity he chose to support years ago after extensive research is a charity now dedicated to helping the lives of others who are unjustly treated.

 

When I am running on that day, I will be thinking of Chris.  I will be saying ‘I am running this race for you buddy’. I know he will be watching me.  I will feel his hand on my back giving me a little push every now and then and probably saying ‘come on you southern softie, move your ass!’ 

 

I would be ever so grateful for your donations, and plan to pester you all continuously until the very day.  You have been warned J

 

Lots of love

Sio xx