14th April 2025 will be 10 years since the passing of my mum, Sue. My mum was diagnosed with COPD at 58 and finally lost her battle aged 64. It was heartbreaking watching my mum slowly fade away, becoming weaker day by day and feeling helpless to change the inevitable. My mum probably lived on longer than expected and I think her grandson was that reason. They were a rock in each other’s lives; that cuddle in the morning, that kiss, or just the time sitting together was what gave my mum the fight to see another day. They had a bond like no other that has left such a void.

Mum was always helping others and everyone else always came first. From the elderly couple she helped when they were stuck in the snow, to the extra child round for dinner or in the car on the way to school. These weren’t “friends” they were children in our classes whose home life wasn’t the best and she was just trying to make their day a little bit better. The marathon encapsulates my mum. People lining the streets to help, cheer, encourage and support strangers make it through a tough time. People coming together for one reason, to help others. And that was my mum.

Since my mum passed I've had numerous friends who have had a family member need the North London Hospice and most recently a young colleague. Without the NLH my mum would not have been able to see out the end of her life around her loved ones, with her grandchildren and in the comfort of her home. Having the opportunity to represent the NLH, raise money, raise awareness and show support for the staff that work tirelessly everyday to make someone else's day that little bit more comfortable, that little bit more enjoyable and give the relatives that last chance to be with a loved one is something that means the world to me.

I can't think of a better way to honour my mums memory, than running the marathon and showing some of the grit and determination she showed in those final years.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story, your support and donations (big or small) will be greatly appreciated.

Peter