It is impossible to describe the devastating impact of losing your child. Ripley died over 7 years ago and I still remember every detail like it was yesterday. It is a loss that affects every aspect of your life every day.

One of the ways that I have learnt to cope is through running and after joining an amazing running club last year and doing some shorter 10k and 10mile fundraising runs for Ripples last year I've (perhaps somewhat stupidly) decided to brave taking on a marathon!

Edinburgh is a particularly special place with the marathon finishing in my grandads home town and with my yearly visit to the military tattoo at the castle and Ripley's love of the RM band and marching music!

So let the marathon training begin! Anything you can give to help motivate me to get out in the still cold days/nights at the moment and to help me get through the full 26.2 miles in May will be hugely appreciated!

Ripples of Compassion was set up in memory of Ripley and we have helped over 2,000 children with cancer and bereaved parents since we started. Please help us to keep helping them and spreading Ripley's kindness and compassion in the world.

Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

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