Louis and I are running the Brentwood half-marathon in memory of my Dad, Jim Lingwood, who died of bowel cancer at just 37 years old, 20 years ago this March. He was incredibly brave, and he is missed more than words can ever say. Not a day goes by that he isn’t thought of.

He was due to go into St Francis Hospice, but sadly he passed away just two days before that could happen. Even so, the hospice didn’t stop caring for us. They guided our family through one of the darkest times of our lives, offering counselling and support sessions for several years, tailored for bereaved children our age. That support meant everything to us and helped shape how we coped with our loss, particularly as Amy and I grew up.

By running and fundraising, we are honouring my dad’s memory and saying thank you to St Francis Hospice for the compassion, strength, and kindness they showed us when we needed it most.

If you’re able to donate, no matter how small, it would mean the world. Your kindness will help other families feel the same comfort and support that mine did. Thank you, from the bottom of our hearts 💙