I’m running the 2026 London Marathon for CHAS (Children’s Hospice Across Scotland). CHAS is an incredible charity that provides vital care and support for children with life-shortening conditions and their families.

I am also running this marathon in memory of a friends grandson, Riley, but known to most as Smiley Riley 💛

Here is Riley’s story,

Riley was 13 years old and had multiple complex disabilities. He was a brave and beautiful boy. He touched the souls of everyone he met. Riley passed away on the 29th April 2025 following a period of critical illness which resulted in gut failure. He was surrounded by his loved ones and is now at peace, pain free.

CHAS supported Riley and his Mum, Leigh, for the last 3 years of his life. They would go Rachel House hospice for breaks where Riley would receive 24 hour care by nursing staff and his Mum could relax knowing all of his needs were taken care of. Riley needed oxygen, suction, nebulisers and physio as well as lots of different medications to manage epilepsy. He was fed into a feeding tube and his meals would be made fresh for him there just like at home. Riley’s mum described the hospice as a home from home. Nurses would support Riley & Leigh to do things together such as cinema trips, sea life centre and anything they wished to do together while they were there.

CHAS nurses also looked after Riley at home when he was too poorly to attend Rachel House and during his many hospital admissions to give Leigh breaks.

After Riley passed peacefully in Ninewells hospital he was transferred to Rachel House where Leigh and the family could spend time with Riley before his funeral. This meant the transition period was more manageable and they were around people who knew them in the lead up to his celebration of life. A friend or family member stayed with Leigh for support during this time too.

CHAS staff supported Leigh to do memory and keepsake activities and offered emotional support during this extremely difficult time.

CHAS provide an invaluable service to families like Riley & Leigh and raising money for this charity means this can continue to happen 💛🌻