Martlets is a local charity providing essential care to people affected by terminal illness in Brighton and Hove, and surrounding areas. Their expert teams provide the very best care and support, helping patients and their loved ones to live life to the full during the precious time they have together.

In July 2024 we received the devastating news that my Dad had been diagnosed with terminal cancer. My dad was an amazing, strong and determined man and did not let this illness stop him from doing the things he loved with us. From swimming in the sea to going for walks in the woods.

My dad wanted to spend the time he had surrounded by his family at home. My mum, my siblings and I cared for Dad surrounding him with love.

In September, my Dads health started to deteriorate and he was taken into the Martlets Hospice where he received incredible care from the amazing team at Wayfield Avenue. They went above and beyond to make sure my Dad was comfortable and provided my family with reassurance knowing he was in the best place possible.

My dad always had a huge love for nature and music and we were so grateful to see the nurses incorporating this into his time at the hospice. Each day the 6 of us got to spend quality time together where we enjoyed sitting outside eating lunch, chatting rubbish, and constantly laughing at dads incredible humour. These are the moments myself and my family will cherish forever.

On September 21st my Dad sadly passed away. We were able to spend as much time as we needed to send dad off swimming in the sea and walking through the trees. My family and I will forever be grateful to the Martlets team for ensuring my dad was at peace and as comfortable as he could be during this time.

I will be running the Brighton Marathon in April 2025 in memory of my amazing dad, Michael Rowbotham. I am hoping to raise as much money as possible to be able to give back to Martlets in honour of everything they did for my Dad and our family in his last few weeks. These donations will be greatly appreciated and will allow the team at Martlets to keep providing incredible care to those dealing with terminal illnesses.