When I last ran the marathon six years' ago, I didn't think I'd ever be doing it again. Even last year, when I got a coveted ballot place, I didn't think I'd be able to participate as I'd torn my ankle ligaments. And then this year in February, once I'd started training, I did the same thing to the other ankle. I really didn't think it would be possible... But now, feeling a bit better and having been given the all-clear, I'm determined to give it one last go for a wonderful cause.

I went to collect my training shirt this week, when I decided to really go for it. As I was leaving the most beautiful rainbow appeared over the hospice building. If that isn't a sign to run, I am not sure what is...

Princess Alice Hospice is my local hospice. A few years ago, I volunteered with them as a compassionate neighbour and acted as a befriender to a lovely lady in her last months of life. Since that time, I've been busy working in local government and witnessing the heartbreaking pressure on services. I've also been caring for my parents and recently completed the first stage of training to become an end-of-life doula. Through all these experiences, I've become more convinced that we need to talk about death more openly and shift away from the medicalised approach—this is exactly what lies at the heart of the Hospice movement.

As they say at Princess Alice Hospice, much more eloquently than I can: "Many people think that hospices are all about dying. We disagree. We believe that end-of-life care is about helping people live every moment to the full in comfort and dignity. It’s about creating a space—whether in our hospice or at home—where families can enjoy special moments and create precious memories together."

If I can help facilitate this important conversation and support the vital but underfunded work of hospices, then I believe it's worth hobbling those 26 miles around London!

I am participating in the London Marathon on April 27th, 2025, with a target of raising £1600 for Princess Alice Hospice. Your support will make a significant difference in ensuring that families receive compassionate care during their most challenging times.