I am running the Great North Run to raise money for Marie Curie in support of Em & her fundraising efforts in Memory of her amazing Mum.

Em has done such an incredible job fundraising for the 2024 GNR and is aiming to do the same again this year with even more incentive to raise funds (please read her words below)

This charity means a lot to us both with Marie Curie having looked after Denise before she sadly lost her battle in May 2025 (Em’s mum) and also provided amazing care for my Nana in the time before she passed away in 2014.

Em’s Bio:

"Em’s lovely mum was meant to come and stay with her and watch her finish the GNR in 2024, which was in memory of Em’s beautiful nana and grandad / Denise’s parents (the G-unit). But unfortunately, her mum was in hospital undergoing tests for various symptoms, so we had to cancel our weekend in the north.

Not long after Em completed the GNR, her mum was diagnosed with an aggressive and terminal cancer in 2024.

Denise sadly passed away on 16th May 2025 in the Scarborough Ward at Skegness Hospital surrounded by her three children “her world” and fought incredibly bravely until the end.

She had been receiving care from the Marie Curie team at home. They were there whenever needed, and the care they provided to Em’s mum was always so diligent and compassionate. They’ve also been incredibly supportive for the family at such a horrendous time. They really are doing gods work!

This charity also means a lot to us both with Marie Curie providing amazing care for Ol’s Nana in the time before she passed away in 2014.

I am sure we’re not alone with being supported by the wonderful people at Marie Curie - their work is far and wide across the UK, and their work is critical. They provide support at one of the most difficult times of an individuals life; and their family too.

So please 🙏🏽

Help us to raise money by donating whatever you can to this incredible charity organisation. They need our support and donations to keep providing compassionate end of life care that every person and family deserves.

Your support means the world, and it truly will make all the training leading up to, and nerves on the day, worth it! Not a moment will pass without thinking about Em’s Mum, and her strength and determination no matter what she had to face in those final months is an inspiration to all.

This is for you Mother Bear ❤️

We love you ❤️

Denise Smith 20th May 1962- 16th May 2025 🙏🏽"