This year I am running the Brighton Marathon fundraising in honour of Sam Wainwright.

The proceeds raised will be donated to the Children's Liver Disease Foundation (partnered with the British Liver Trust) who supported Sam throughout his life and held a very special place in his heart. Sam was a 3rd year psychology student at the University of East Anglia working hard on his studies and spending a lot of his spare time running. In August 2024, Sam completed the Helsinki marathon in an incredible 3 hours and 27 minutes, raising over £1000 for the Children’s Liver Disease Foundation - I won't be that quick but I want to help raise money for CLDF to continue his legacy.

More importantly, Sam was a loving son, brother and boyfriend and it was devastating to have to say goodbye to him suddenly in December 2025 at just 22 due to a long battle with a rare blood disorder. Sam was loved by all who knew him and leaves behind so many people who will miss him so much. He faced every challenge ever thrown at him with enormous strength and a huge smile on his face, even from the age of 2 when he had a life saving liver transplant. Sam embraced every day with a love for life and unwavering positivity.

I have had the absolute pleasure of getting to know Sam, my sister Poppy's boyfriend, across the last couple of years. He was always smiling, always lovely and was everything I'd always hoped Poppy would have. We had great times on holiday together, even when arguing whether Norwich or West Ham were worse at that given time over a paella. He integrated into our family perfectly, so much so the term 'Wainruffs' was coined. We all miss him so much, and want to keep his unwavering positive legacy going to help us keep him in our hearts.

The British Liver Trust and Children’s Liver Disease Foundation have merged. We are the only UK charity for children, young people and adults affected by all liver conditions. Their helpline and support services help thousands of people every year, and they campaign to raise awareness of all liver diseases. Thank you for your support, and please don’t forget to Gift Aid if you are a UK taxpayer.