THE FINAL ROUTE

Having served 14yrs in the military, i decided it was time to venture into a new carer path, caring for children/young adults with life-limiting disabilities.

As a final memory, Gary and I have decided we would take on one more physically/mentally demanding challenge running 112km (70miles, 2.5 marathons) in one go to raise money for Julia’s House children’s Hospice. The idea came from the ‘wall challenge’ Carlisle to Newcastle.

On Saturday 24th October 2026 we shall set off from Carlisle castle and complete a route finishing at Tyne Bridge in Newcastle. Given our military background, Gary has created a route to test our mental and physical robustness taking parts of our run off grid and up into the hills 🙈

Why Julias House Hospice:

Julia's House holds a very special place in my heart. We are dedicating this crazy challenge to the beautiful Ella and her wonderful mum Sally. Ella had Sanfilippo (MPS III) and sadly died just before her 18th birthday, in December last year. As part of her care team, we all adored Ella and I was so fortunate to share some life-long memories and adventures with her that I will cherish in my heart forever.

It is through Ella that I first met the Julia’s House team and her incredible nurse Celia, as they cared for her throughout her short life, and even more so at her end of life and proving post death care. Because of the support of Julia’s House her mum had the opportunity to bring her home one last time to say goodbye ❤️

I've seen first-hand the incredible care, compassion and support they provide to families, and after losing Ella in 2025, I witnessed just how invaluable their support is. Their care doesn't end when a child dies—I have seen how they continue to stand beside bereaved parents, siblings and families, offering comfort during the most difficult times.

Every year, they also hold a Remembering Day at their Dorset and Wiltshire hospices, bringing bereaved families together to reflect, remember and celebrate the lives of some truly special children. Julia's House also helps create lasting memories by contributing towards memory-making activities and providing each family with a beautiful memory box filled with precious keepsakes.

As well as providing expert end-of-life care, Julia's House invites life-limited children for respite in the hospice as well as in their own homes through community visits, giving parents the confidence to take a much-needed break, knowing their child is in safe, caring hands.

Every member of the Julia's House team—nurses, carers, play workers, family support—is dedicated to making a real difference to the lives of the children and families they care for.

Only around 8% of Julia's House funding comes from the government, meaning they rely heavily on the generosity of the public and fundraising events to continue their vital work. By supporting my fundraiser, you'll be helping Julia's House continue providing exceptional care, creating precious memories, and ensuring more families receive the support they need when they need it most.

Thank you so much for your kindness and support—it really will make a difference.