On 7th September, I’ll be running the Great North Run in memory of my amazing mum, and to raise money for Open Road, a local charity that supports people living with addiction.

This run is especially meaningful—it falls in my mum’s birthday month.

My mum struggled with alcohol addiction for many years, and in that time, she found support and understanding at Open Road’s centre in Chatham, Kent. The work they do is life-changing and often life-saving, helping people take steps towards recovery in a safe, compassionate space.

Sadly, my mum went missing on 14th August 2023, and her body was found in the River Medway just a few days later, on 18th August. It’s been a heartbreaking journey, but one I want to turn into something positive.

Earlier this year, I ran the London Marathon in her memory—and thanks to everyone’s incredible generosity, we raised a huge amount that made a real difference to this small charity.

If you can donate, no matter how small, it means the world to me—and it could help someone else’s mum, dad, sibling, or friend find hope and healing through Open Road.

Thank you for reading, and for supporting this cause so close to my heart.

Lots of Love

Kirsty xxx