Hi my name is Taka and I live in Brighton.

In 2023, I was lucky enough to welcome two wonderful rescue cats into my life. They have brought so much joy, warmth, and love to our home—every day, they remind us of the simple beauty in companionship. They’ve truly transformed our lives, and now I want to give something back to the incredible organization that made this possible.

That’s why I’ve decided to run the Brighton Half Marathon, supporting Raystede, a charity that works tirelessly to change the lives of animals who might otherwise never have the chance to experience love, safety, and care.

Raystede has been at the heart of animal welfare in Sussex for nearly 70 years. Their mission is to give animals a better life through rehoming, rehabilitation, and sanctuary while educating and supporting people to care for animals with compassion and respect. They care for an extraordinary range of animals—from dogs, cats, and rabbits to donkeys, parrots, and even alpacas.

This cause is deeply personal to me, and I’d be so grateful for your support. Every donation helps Raystede continue their vital work, ensuring more animals can find the loving homes they deserve. Thank you for considering this great cause—it truly means the world to me, and to them.