In August 2022, at age 27, my world as I knew it was shattered into pieces as I received the news that my mum had died suddenly. I’ve spent the last 3 years feeling untethered, lost and heartbroken, whilst I try to navigate a world without my best friend. I’ve shared my story before and how exercise has helped me cope and given me an anchor in this unfamiliar and scary new world.

On the 19th of April 2026, I will be running Manchester Marathon in memory of my mum, Tracy and to raise money for It’s Time Charity. My story is just one of so many, as unfortunately, losing a parent as a young adult is more common than we might think - 1 in 7 people will lose a parent by the age of 30. It’s Time use lived experience to create resources, spaces and support for young adults who have lost one or both parents, because every young adult who loses a parent deserves to feel supported.

Fuelled by my love of a challenge, my drive to make my mum proud and my dream to support others who have experienced similar loss/es, I am excited and terrified to be participating in the Manchester Marathon and hope you can support me and It’s Time Charity. I started running a few weeks before my mum died and am by no means an expert, so this challenge will be huge for me. If you can spare any pennies, please consider donating below and helping them in their mission to support bereaved young adults. Even a share, like or comment can go a long way too. I really appreciate any support you can offer and I know other young people will too.

I’ll be keeping this page up to date with my marathon training, if you’re interested in seeing me take on this challenge, I will need all the cheerleaders I can get to push me to that finish line, especially now I no longer have the support of my biggest cheerleader, my mum.

Your donations will contribute towards:

Funding free group therapy for young adults who need support

Building an online community to help young adults feel less isolated in their grief

Creating free educational content to raise awareness and increase understanding

And so much more, your donation really can make a difference to someone’s life.

Thank you,

Lucy x