I’m running a marathon. Yes… a full 26.2 miles. I know — there’s a very fine line between madness and genius, and I can confirm I’m definitely leaning toward madness 😂

I’m running for a charity that my Mum absolutely loved. We sadly lost Mum a couple of years ago, but her story is the reason I’m finally lacing up my trainers and doing this.

Mum had been cancer-free for seven years when she was diagnosed with incurable lymphoma. She faced the brutal, takes-no-prisoners treatment with more strength, grit and humour than I could ever imagine.

At one point I told her, “If you can go through all of this, then the least I can do is run a few miles.” So I promised her I’d run a marathon for her.

What I didn’t realise at the time was that actually getting into the London Marathon is a marathon in itself! I entered the ballot… and entered again… and again… seven times in total before finally getting the golden email that said I was in.

So here I am, finally training for the London Marathon. Mum won’t be there in her physical form, but I know she’ll be with me in spirit — probably laughing at the fact that it’s taken me seven years to keep my promise and run those “few miles.”

Every step will be for her. ❤️:

I am aiming for the target of £777 as mum was free from cancer for 7 years and it took me 7 years to get a place, so all the sevens seemed the right target to set! The charity I am running for is The Bright Horizons Foundation for Children UK is a charitable organization established in 2005 with a mission to support vulnerable children and families experiencing trauma and adversity. Here's an overview of what they do:

🌟 Mission

To make a difference in communities by creating Bright Spaces—safe, enriching play environments for children affected by:

• Domestic violence

• Abuse

• Homelessness

• Parental imprisonment

• Ill health1

🧸 What Are Bright Spaces?

Bright Spaces are specially designed indoor and outdoor areas that:

• Provide safe places to play, relax, and build positive relationships

• Help children recover from trauma through play and therapeutic activities

• Are used for family interventions, therapy, and support sessions

• Support children during legal proceedings, such as giving evidence in abuse cases

Sounds amazing doesn’t it! Help us to make a difference by donating what you can and I will give all I can and complete the London Marathon!

Appreciatingly yours with sore legs!

Colette ☺️