In April I’m running the London Marathon for It’s Never You.

This charity exists because of a little boy called Hugh.

In October 2020, Ceri and Frances Menai Davis were told their five year old son had high risk Rhabdomyosarcoma. The next ten months changed everything.

Chemotherapy. Radiotherapy. Hospital corridors. Conversations no parent should ever have to hear.

Hugh showed a level of bravery most adults would struggle to find.

But shortly after his sixth birthday, on 18 September 2021, he passed away.

When Frances first heard the diagnosis, the words she said were:

“You always think it’s someone else’s child. Never you.”

That’s where the name comes from.

It’s Never You was created so that no parent has to face that journey alone.

Being beside a child in hospital is isolating. It is mentally overwhelming. Physically draining. Financially frightening. Many parents have to stop working overnight, yet there is currently no proper government support if your child is diagnosed with cancer.

This charity provides emotional support, practical help, financial guidance and a community of parents walking the same road. They’ve built an app that connects families, signposts over 70 specialist children’s cancer charities, and gives parents access to real, usable support when they need it most.

They are also actively lobbying government to improve workers’ rights and financial protection for parents in this situation. Because no mum or dad should be worrying about how to pay the bills while their child is fighting for their life.

That’s why I’m running.

Yes, 26.2 miles will hurt.

But that discomfort is chosen.

Parents like Ceri and Frances didn’t choose their battle.

If you can donate, thank you. Every contribution helps this charity support families who never expected to be in this position.

Because none of us ever think it will be our child.

It’s never you… until it is.

Rick

Hugh’s Law is about making sure parents are protected when their child is diagnosed with a serious illness. Right now, too many families are left navigating employment uncertainty, financial pressure and emotional trauma at the worst moment of their lives.

The campaign calls for structured, guaranteed support so parents can focus on their child without fearing the loss of their livelihood.

Alongside that, we’re pushing for a review of mental health provision for parents, from diagnosis through treatment and, in the worst cases, bereavement. Support is currently inconsistent and often delayed. Families shouldn’t have to search for help or wait months during the most acute period of trauma.

Hugh’s law is in review with the government and the consultation will start in the summer this year, but in the mean time, businesses have taken on the principles such as Brentford FC, Morgan motors and others