In September, Mason and I will be taking on the Warrington Running Festival Half Marathon in memory of Chris, to mark the first anniversary of his passing and to raise money for Wirral Hospice St John’s.

For me, this will be my biggest running challenge yet. I run regularly but have never gone further than 7 miles. For Mason, who doesn’t run at all (I can barely persuade him to a parkrun!), this is a huge challenge too. We are both stepping far outside our comfort zones, together, for a charity that is incredibly close to our hearts.

Chris was cared for as an outpatient by St John’s Hospice and although he didn’t spend a lot of time there, their Hospice at Home and Palliative Care teams played an integral part in his care at home, where he spent his final 12 days surrounded by love, comfort and the people who meant the most to him. Chris’ wish to die peacefully and with dignity at home was fulfilled because of the wonderful community hospice teams and I will always be grateful.

The boys and I access wonderful bereavement support that gives us a safe and understanding space to navigate our grief and begin to make sense of life in a world changed forever.

By running this half marathon, we hope to honour Chris’ memory, say thank you and give something back to the incredible hospice team who gave us precious time together, helped Chris spend his final days at home, and continue to support us as we learn to live without him.

Any donation, no matter how small, would mean so much to us and to the families who rely on the amazing care of Wirral Hospice St John’s.

Thank you

Rach & Mason xxx