My Why

My Poppa, Matthew Piscatelli, taught me what strength really looks like. Even while battling cancer, he kept showing up—for his family, his customers, and everyone who needed a hand. He loved his lawn mower repair shop, fixing things, and always had the best advice. He worked right up to the very end, making sure everyone else was taken care of.

Poppa taught me resilience, compassion, and the importance of showing up for others.

So when I lace up my trainers this November, it’s for him—and for every person who’s ever faced the word cancer head-on. 💚

After my 40th birthday in August, I caught COVID again and almost gave up my HYROX Dublin solo ticket. I wasn’t sure my body could handle my first solo. Then I watched a video from childhood cancer advocate Zuza Beine, who had just passed away—and I cried.

In that moment, I realised I had no excuse. I’m here. I’m healthy enough.

I may not be 100%, but I can show up.

My Story

This November, I’m taking on HYROX Dublin — solo for the first time — to raise at least £400 for Macmillan Cancer Support, who are there for families like mine when life feels unbearable.

During the pandemic, I was pregnant with my son—having just lost twins weeks earlier—when I contracted COVID-19 in early 2020. What followed was a blur of complications: Long COVID, blood clots in my placenta, an undiagnosed DVT, and postpartum lung issues that made even walking difficult.

For two years, I balanced breastfeeding, running my business, and rebuilding my health—while facing setback after setback.

By 2023, the Nuffield Long COVID Program gave me structure. I combined it with yoga, Pilates, F45, and dietary changes—cutting dairy and meat even reversed my pancreas inflammation. Gradually, my strength returned.

In 2024, I took on HYROX doubles in Glasgow and London along with Hybrid NW in Liverpool, and training has since shaved over seven years off my cardio age.

Now, I’m stepping up alone to race solo. Because setbacks don’t define us—how we rise does.

Every step I take is for Poppa, for Zuza, and for the millions of people facing cancer right now. 💚

💪 Why Your Support Matters

£25 funds a Macmillan nurse for an hour

£50 covers travel to life-saving treatment

£100 provides emergency grants for families in crisis

Every pound helps. Every breath counts.

Together, we can make sure no one faces cancer alone.