On 13th October 2024 cousin Matt and I are doing the Great Eastern Run half marathon.

For me, nothing can ever live up to last year when Lucy and I ran it for Mum and Sue Ryder, with the incredible support of Laura and Ben who ran the 13 miles with us – as well as all the fun runners – Lily, Ted, Dad, Nigel, Ezra, Ariana and Ben (who did both runs!!). It was one of the most poignant days of my life and one that fills me with gratitude and love every time I think about it. It helped bring us all together and find something amazingly positive in sad times.

This year I know will be different, but I wanted to carry on the tradition for at least one more year before my knees get too old to run 13 miles. And I'm super happy that Matt is running too as he wasn't able do it last year due to work. Cousin Ben wanted to run with us, but unfortunately his knees won't let him – so even though he ran through the pain last year and damn near killed himself, he'd be daft to do it again.

We absolutely fleeced everyone for sponsorship last year and the generosity was mind blowing ( we raised £4625.36 for Sue Ryder, including Gift Aid!!!), so I had decided not to fundraise this year. However, my wonderful family has been asking me to set up a fundraising page – and it does help keep the motivation up in the final stages of training after months of hard work, as well as help us get to the finish line on the big day too.

So, this year with the family's approval I've decided to try to raise £200 for the amazing charity I am volunteering for as part of my counselling course.

The charity

The charity is Don't Lose Hope in Bourne which provides counselling and support services to children and adults who can't afford private counselling or can't wait for NHS services. The people who run it are amazing, selfless individuals who have taken a chance to create something that really makes a difference to a lot of people. As well as counselling, they run a community garden, cafe and support groups so people always have someone to talk to and can take part in activities. They even give up their Christmases so no one has to spend it alone. I love being a part of that, and it would be great to help them in some small way to continue the brilliant work they do. Find out more about the charity's work here.

If you can spare a few pounds to sponsor us to run and help support the work of Don't Lose Hope, I would be hugely grateful.

Lots of love

Jenna