Me and my brother Matt are training for the Leeds Marathon on 12th May 2024 in memory of our beloved Auntie Joy. This date will mark the 15 year anniversary of our Auntie Joys passing, who sadly took her own life at the young age of 33. We are raising money for Derbyshire Mind, who currently fund a Crisis Support Drop-In Service in Swadlincote (our home town) offering support and a safe space to anyone experiencing a mental health crisis. See below for the link for more information on where/when this is.

https://www.derbyshiremind.org.uk/services/crisis-support-drop-in-services/swadlincotecrisis/

A note from Erica:

I have wanted to do something to honour my Auntie Joys memory and celebrate her life for many years because, quite simply, she was my favourite person on the planet. I would spend all my free time with her, I’d go to work with her after school, she’d take me with her on dates, and whilst she was here I didn’t care very much about having friends because she always had my back, she was my confidant, my idol, my super cool Auntie and very best friend all in one. And I still miss her today.

It will be my 30th birthday this year. For half of my life, I have dreaded turning 30 because I thought that I would get to my 30’s and my life would follow a similar path to my Auntie because I idolised her so much. It’s why I don’t like birthdays, every year of getting closer to how old my Auntie Joy was when she took her own life terrifies me. So this marathon falling on the 15 year anniversary, in the city I live in, just a few weeks before I turn 30 seemed like a sign to do this now and channel all those feelings into raising money for a cause close to mine and my families hearts.

I’ve said for many years despite my love for a weekly 5k that I could/would never do a marathon, to be running for nearly 5 hours is INSANE to me… Whilst it won’t be easy, with my brother by my side I know we’re gonna smash it. It’s just one more thing that we will get through together.

I appreciate every single penny donated and thank you for your support (financially but especially and/or otherwise) in advance.

A note from Matt:

It’s an honour to be running this marathon in memory of my late and great auntie joy.

The very name in itself encompasses the very meaning of life, she would bring so much happiness and motivation to all others lives’.

I have so many memories of happiness (and of course joy) that I could reference. She will be with me from my first breath and she will be with me on every breath of this marathon.

My shining star as always, I love you auntie joy and I hope you are proud of me.

Thank you ❤️