I am running the Manchester Marathon 2025, and raising money for Brain Research UK, in loving memory of Caroline Sleigh…my incredible Gran 💞

This will be my first ever marathon and I want to dedicate it to Gran, she was my greatest inspiration and supporter. She was the kind and considerate to everyone. Gran taught me resilience, love, and that no dream was too big or unachievable!

I’d love to share Grans story…

Caroline was an avid runner all her life, growing up in Edinburgh. In 1987 she was out on a run and tragically suffered a brain haemorrhage.

She spent months in hospital until she was stable enough to have a brain operation. Gran recovered slowly thanks to the Atkinson Morley hospital treatment. Despite now having metal in her brain, she was positive, happy, and would joke about setting off the metal detectors at the airport.

In 2023 Gran unfortunately had a stroke. She was 84. It was a big stroke and it affected her limb movement and ability to swallow.

Despite all the odds she kept on fighting but after spending 5 months on the stroke ward she sadly passed away in October 2023.

Our whole family was devastated as our optimism shattered and hope was lost. However, I am forever grateful that she had such amazing care 37 years ago, otherwise I would never have met her, listened to her stories, inspiring tales of running through the Scottish hills, and given her hugs.

Grans love of running has been handed down to me and this run is about saying the biggest thank you to the medical staff who saved her by raising much needed funds for them and this important charity.

She was my best friend and I miss her so dearly. The impact Gran had on my life was so special, she is my motivation and inspiration every day. I’m taking on this challenge to make her proud 🤍

My sole aim is to raise awareness of neurological conditions, support, and repay my gratitude. Any donations are greatly appreciated but are not expected😊

Thank you for taking the time to read🙏🏼