I am running the Edinburgh Half Marathon to raise money for Chest, Heart & Stroke Scotland. This is a charity close to my family’s hearts, as they have supported us in different ways throughout the years.

In 2020, my mam suffered two transient ischaemic attacks (mini-strokes) due to a blood clot on her brain. Our world was flipped, and we had to learn to live with a new normal. Chest, Heart & Stroke Scotland provided specialist nurses who helped us through those first six months.

On Father’s Day 2024, my mam suffered another mini-stroke, and our world was flipped for a third time. Again, Chest, Heart & Stroke Scotland provided valuable support in various ways—from someone to talk to, to support groups. Although there is still a long road to go, the support they have provided to my mam has made the journey slightly easier.

Therefore, I am challenging myself to run the half marathon and raise money so that others in similar situations can have access to the vital support provided by CHSS. This charity is so important, as it helps provide support to 1 in 5 people in Scotland who are living with chest, heart and stroke conditions, as well as Long Covid.

Any donation is greatly appreciated. Every penny raised will allow us to reach even more people who desperately need help through our Community Healthcare Support Service.