Next February, I turn 40. But before I enter Chapter 40 or Level 4 , it will be the 20th anniversary of my sister’s passing.

My sister was born with Down’s syndrome, and despite all the things doctors told my mum she would never be able to do, she went on to achieve so much. She could read and write, picked my brother and I up from school, had a job, went to college and gained many qualifications. She travelled independently to places further away than my mum was comfortable with and confidently disciplined her younger siblings, cousins, and even some of the older ones too!

She was truly AMAZING.

My sister was only 26 when she suddenly passed away, just four days before my 20th birthday. Experiencing such a huge loss at a time that should have been filled with celebration completely changed the way I viewed life. From that moment on, every birthday became a reminder of just how precious life is and that growing older is a privilege I will never take for granted. On 9 February 2007, I made a promise to myself: to live life to the fullest, for both of us.

In true Mickela style, I’ve made a list of 40 things to do before I’m 40 to celebrate this milestone. Running a 5K or 10K was originally one of the goals. Don’t ask how that turned into a HALF MARATHON! I don’t do distance running, I’m very much a short-sprints-kind-of-runner, so please pray for me!

But this challenge is about more than just running. Raising money for a charity supporting people with Down’s syndrome is also on my list because I know first-hand how important support, opportunity and belief can be. My sister, who was born with Down’s syndrome, showed me that people can achieve far beyond the expectations others may place on them.

Another goal on my list is to improve my fitness and get back into shape before I turn 40. After years of balancing motherhood, running a business and everything else life brings, I realised I hadn’t prioritised my health and fitness as much as I would have liked. So this half marathon is a personal challenge, a way to honour my sister, and an opportunity to raise money for a cause that means so much to me.

Three goals, one very big challenge!

If you can donate, no matter how big or small, I would be incredibly grateful. And if you can’t donate, please share my page and follow my journey.

Here’s to my sister, Kaye!

Here’s to 40.

Here’s to living life to the fullest.

And here’s to completing a half marathon when I probably should have stuck to the 10K!