Why am I taking part in a marathon…this is something I never would have thought of doing or actually signed up for normally! I am certainly no runner or exercise enthusiast. So why? I’m doing this in Tom’s honour and to make my boy proud.

My son Tom, tragically lost his life on 29 February 2024 aged 14, and it broke my world beyond words I can ever express. I will never let Tom’s name be forgotten - his soul was too vibrant and bright to be dulled, and so I will carry his torch for him so that his memory will continue to live on forever more.

I decided to do the Brighton Marathon as it would push my capabilities to the extreme, physical pain to battle the heartbreaking inner pain I feel everyday. Not only this but to raise money for charities, be it on a national level or those in our local community, and to do it all in Tom’s name, I know he would want some good to come from all the heartbreak we have all endured.

For those of you who may not have known Tom personally - how do I express his character in a few short words; he was cheeky, charming, mischievous, bright, wilful and he had the most infectious personality, above all this though Tom was the most caring, loyal, protective and loving young man that I have the honour to call my son. I will forever be proud of him 💙 and I will do all I can do make him proud of me.

I am so grateful that Gary and Mrs K (Head of Year) have also agreed to take on this challenge with me, we will all be running with Tom in our hearts. All support provided, whether that be donations, or support on the day is extremely appreciated by us all.

💙 #Tom #Forever14 #Fly High 💙

Mumsie xx 🕊️🪽💙

I will start by saying that we have all been left with a very palpable ‘Tom shaped hole’ in our lives. Following Tom’s death, his mum (a hugely inspirational person) and I talked a lot about legacy.

About how we can continue to keep Tom’s name and all he was alive in people’s hearts.

One of those things we talked about was a marathon. We both laughed, as neither of us are runners. I mean really, not runners!

But then we thought about how proud (but mostly funny!) Tom would have found us crossing the finish line together, raising money for charity in his name - it then became a no brainer.

Tom was hugely clever, fiercely determined, a master negotiator, very funny and incredibly kind. I wish everyone could have known him.

So, here I am, running a marathon (yes, me!)

So, if you can spare anything for the charities below that have been chosen by Tom’s mum - please do. If you can’t, please share this post to spread the word.

All in the name of Tom. A boy loved by so many and sorely missed by many more.

Leilah (Mrs K)

I promised myself to never compete in the Brighton marathon ever again, but how can I not if your Mum’s doing it! I’m honoured to do it again for you buddy….even if it is dressed as a seagull!

Tom, you are the most amazing young man and you had so much potential in this world. You brought us so much joy and we all have so much love for you.

You will be missed forever beyond words - loved and never forgotten by those that knew you. Fly high bud.

Gary x