This October, I'm running the Royal Parks Half Marathon for Teenage Cancer Trust, in loving memory of our beloved little angel Selin - who carried her long fight against cancer with incredible courage, grace, and strength, and whose pure, eternal light will shine in our hearts forever.

With her precious existence, Selin opened so many hearts, touched so many lives, and reminded us all of what is real and what endures. She left a mark that will forever shine in this world - glimmering in stardust, in the colours of a rainbow, in the jewelled reflections the sun gifts to the seas - never fading, never disappearing...

Selin's life taught us the deepest truth: that in this fleeting existence - fleeting as a dream, as the wind — the only true branch to hold onto, the only safe harbour to take refuge in, is pure love. That loving and being loved is the only true meaning to be found in this life.

Selin was love itself - and she always will be.

This adorable cover image was designed by Zeynep, my dearest cousin and Selin's 13-year-old older sister. Selin adored hamsters and soft pastel tones, so it captures her incredibly beautifully.

I'm endlessly grateful to my gold-hearted friend Lally, for initiating all this, making it happen, and motivating and inspiring me every step of the way. I don't have any running background at all and only started training a few months ago - my only goal is to cross the finish line, no matter how long it takes, in memory of our beloved Selin.

Teenage Cancer Trust does vital work for young people and families facing cancer - providing specialist care, emotional support, research, and moments of comfort during the hardest days.

This run is for those who have fought, those still fighting, and those we carry with us always. Thank you so much for supporting Teenage Cancer Trust and helping us honour Selin's memory. ♡