In 2027, I’ll be taking on the biggest challenge I’ve ever set myself by running my first ever marathon – the London Marathon.

I’m running for Southern Hospice Group because this isn’t just another charity to me. Fourteen years ago, St Barnabas Hospice cared for my dad, Toni, in the final days of his life, and it’s something I’ll never forget.

When I was 12 years old, my dad passed away after a long battle with lymphoma. After months of treatment in hospital, we were told there was nothing more the doctors could do, so he was transferred to St Barnabas Hospice.

We were told he may have around four months left with us. Heartbreakingly, he passed away just 10 days later.

Although my dad was only at St Barnabas for 10 days, the kindness, compassion and dignity shown to him, and the support given to me and my family, made an unbearable time just that little bit easier. Those 10 days have stayed with me for the last 14 years, and losing my dad at 12 years old is something I’ll carry with me for the rest of my life. I’ll always be grateful for the care we received during those final days.

Now, 14 years later, I have the opportunity to give something back.

I started running a couple of years ago and completed the Brighton & Worthing Half Marathon in 2026, but this will be my first marathon and the biggest physical challenge I’ve ever taken on.

As a mum of four, I want my children to grow up knowing that they can achieve things they never thought possible. I hope by taking on this challenge, I can show them that hard work, determination and believing in yourself really do make a difference.

I’m incredibly grateful to have a body that’s able to take on this challenge, and I want to use that privilege to raise money for people and families who need the outstanding care Southern Hospice Group provides every day.

This marathon is for my dad.

I know my dad would have been somewhere along the route, cheering me on. I wish he could be there to see me cross the finish line, but I know he’ll be with me every step of the way. By running this marathon, I hope to honour his memory while helping Southern Hospice Group continue to care for other families when they need it most.

Southern Hospice Group has set me a fundraising target of £3,000. Every donation, no matter the amount, will help them continue providing incredible care, comfort and support to patients and their loved ones.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read my story. Whether you’re able to donate, share my page or simply wish me luck, it honestly means more than you know. 💛