I’m running the London Marathon in memory of my cousin, Kristian Long, to raise money for Cystic Fibrosis.

Kristian was funny, cheeky and always great to be around. He was quick-witted, smart, loved his tattoos and was completely devoted to Chelsea FC. He sadly passed away at just 19, after facing challenges most of us could never imagine.

He spent much of his childhood at Great Ormond Street Hospital battling Cystic Fibrosis, always determined to get back home again. The London Marathon will be a huge challenge for me, but it’s nothing compared to what Kristian had to fight through.

I’m doing this to honour Kristian and raise money to support people and families affected by Cystic Fibrosis. Your donations can help fund vital research, improve care and treatment, and provide support for families facing the daily challenges of this condition. Every donation, big or small, could help make life a little easier for someone living with Cystic Fibrosis and bring hope to families like ours.

I’ll be thinking of Kristian every step of the way and hoping I can do him proud. Thank you for helping me support this important cause in his memory.

Forever loved and never forgotten.

___

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic condition which causes sticky mucus to build up in the lungs and digestive system. It affects more than 11,000 people in the UK. One in 25 of us carries the faulty gene that causes it, usually without knowing.

Cystic fibrosis comes with challenges, affecting our physical health, mental wellbeing and how we choose to live our lives. But our community is uniting towards the ultimate goal of effective treatment for all.

Cystic Fibrosis Trust is the charity uniting people to stop cystic fibrosis.