The Story

I am taking on the Great North Run this year in loving memory of a truly wonderful woman—my partner's mum, Jenny.

We sadly said goodbye to Jenny in May 2025 after a heartbreakingly short and sudden battle with cancer. It was a whirlwind few months that turned our lives upside down. But amidst the shock and grief, we found a safe harbour at St Michael’s Hospice Harrogate.

The greatest people on Earth

I honestly cannot praise the team at St Michael’s enough. To say they are the "greatest people on earth" is an understatement. From the doctors and nurses to the volunteers and tea-makers, every single person we encountered treated Jenny with a level of kindness, respect, and dignity that was humbling to witness.

They didn’t just look after her medical needs; they wrapped their arms around our whole family. They made a terrifying time feel calm and filled with love. They are, quite simply, angels in uniform.

The Reality

Here is the truth about why I am asking for your money: St Michael’s makes it look effortless, but the care they provide comes at a huge cost.

St Michael’s is a local charity, and they receive only a portion of their funding from the government. For the vast majority of their costs, they are completely reliant on the generosity of our community.

They are desperate to ensure that no one faces terminal illness alone, but they can only keep their doors open and their nurses on the wards if people like us step up to help. Every donation keeps the lights on, pays for pain relief, and funds the bereavement support that helps families survive the unthinkable. By donating, you aren't just giving money; you are keeping this vital service alive.

Why the GNR?

On a personal level, running has been a massive benefit to me over the past year. It has been my sanctuary—a way to clear my head, process the stress of this year, and protect my mental health. It has given me the resilience to keep going when things have been tough and to support my partner in the best way I can.

Now, I want to use this passion to give something back. I am taking the activity that has helped me heal, and using it to help them.

My Personal Pledge

To show just how much this cause means to me, I am setting a challenge. If we can raise £750 together on this page, I will personally donate the difference to top the pot up to £1,000.

Please donate whatever you can. Whether it is the price of a pint or a larger sum, it goes directly to the people who made Jenny’s final days peaceful.

Thank you

They carried us through our darkest days—please help me ensure they can be there to carry the next family, too.