I’m scared but excited to be training towards a half marathon in May! It seemed like a good opportunity to raise money for Teenage Cancer Trust, an incredible charity. TCT provide treatment and support for young people aged 13-24 facing cancer. Despite the wards being inside NHS hospitals, TCT is a charity and the 28 specialist units across the UK only exist because of money raised.

I wanted to raise money for TCT in memory of my beautiful bestfriend Phoebe who we sadly lost to a long, brave battle with Leukaemia in February 2021. Phoebe was only 23 and the most amazing friend, with the best sense of humour and infectious laugh. Having instantly hit it off when we met aged 5 whilst our brothers were playing football, I’m still adjusting to life without her and know that many other people also miss her so very much.

From visiting the ward at Addenbrokes and hearing from Phoebe and her family who spent a lot of time there, TCT helped to make those around 5 years of on-and-off treatment the best it could be. The nurses create a positive environment for young people, who are surrounded by other young people facing similar treatment, rather than with older adults or children on other NHS wards.

Running has certainly helped me with grief, and so this seemed like the perfect time to raise money in Phoebe’s memory and for TCT. If you are able to donate anything at all I would be very grateful and thanks for reading this essay !