In April 2026 I’ll be running two marathons: Paris and London, just two weeks apart. Physically it will be tough, but emotionally it means far more than just miles, finish lines or medals.

I’m doing this for my son Hugh. Before he died, I told him I was going to run a marathon. He was so excited about it genuinely proud, asking questions, imagining the day, telling every nurse who came round I never got to run it while he was here. So now, I’ll be running both with his shoes around my neck. The shoes he wore. A small but powerful way for me to feel like he’s still with me every step.

But this isn’t just about me or Hugh. Since losing him, I’ve met so many families navigating childhood illness, treatment, uncertainty and, sometimes, unimaginable loss. What strikes me every time is how alone parents often feel. While their child is fighting for their life, parents are trying to hold everything else together, jobs, finances, mental health, siblings, relationships. And if the worst happens, that support often disappears just when it’s needed most.

Through It’s Never You, we’re working to change that, pushing for better financial protection, mental health support, and recognition that when a child is seriously ill, the whole family is affected. For these marathons I’ll also be carrying the names of children affected by serious illness on my T-shirt. Each name is a reminder that every family has a story, a fight, a hope.

This challenge is personal. It’s emotional. And it’s about making sure no family feels forgotten. If you’re able to support, donate, or simply share this page, it genuinely helps. Every bit of support pushes us closer to a world where families facing childhood illness are properly supported emotionally, practically and financially.

Thank you for being part of this journey.