After setting myself the challenge of running one half marathon, I well and truly caught the bug. I’m now asking for your support for my sixth — and most important — one yet.

This September, one of my best friends Lauren and I will be running the Great North Run, the biggest half marathon in the world, for a cause that is incredibly close to our hearts and to Team Harris.

Our world was shattered last year with the sudden and completely unexpected loss of Sarah — my sister-in-law, Chris’s sister, and Emma and Steve’s daughter.

Grief is hard enough to carry day to day, but it has been especially cruel for my in-law family, who were left with so few answers. After months of uncertainty (that felt like years), we were finally put in touch with the charity CRY. They took the time to explain what Sudden Arrhythmic Death Syndrome is, and for the first time we felt truly seen, heard, and able to understand a little more about how and why we lost Sarah.

Since then, CRY have supported Emma, Steve, and Chris through extensive cardiac testing. I am also now on their mailing list to attend a heart screening myself — something I would encourage anyone to do if they have any concerns about their heart health.

Last year, we were overwhelmed by the love and support shown to Team Harris. Today, I’m asking for that kindness once more. If you’re able to spare anything at all, you’ll be helping to support this incredible charity — and get me to the start line of my final half marathon for a while.

Every week in the UK, at least 12 apparently fit and healthy young people die from undiagnosed cardiac conditions. With your donation, CRY can continue their vital work to reduce young sudden cardiac death by working with cardiologists and family doctors, establishing best practice, and providing screening to protect the heart health of young people.

Thank you so much for reading, supporting, and remembering Sarah 💛