In April, my brother James and I will be running the London Landmarks Half Marathon in memory of our beautiful mum, Alison, and to raise money for Breast Cancer Now.

Our mum was diagnosed with breast cancer for the second time in December last year, and heartbreakingly she passed away suddenly in March. Losing her has turned our world upside down. The shock, the pain and the emptiness she has left behind are impossible to put into words. She was our constant, our biggest supporter, and the heart of our family — and every day without her feels unbearably hard.

Breast Cancer Now supported our family through many incredibly difficult times. From providing information and reassurance, to being there for mum whenever she needed, their support meant more to both her and the family than we can ever express. We have seen first-hand the difference this charity makes to families facing breast cancer, and why their work is so vital.

After my last marathon, I said I would never run again — but this event, and the reason behind it, inspired me to start running once more. Training hasn’t been easy, especially while navigating grief, but the memory of mum keeps us going. Every mile we run is for her, and we know she would be proud of us for doing this together.

We know that times are tough financially, and any donation — no matter how small — would mean the world to us. By donating, you are helping Breast Cancer Now continue their life-changing work, and helping to support other families who are facing the same heartbreak we are living with every day.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read our story, for supporting us, and for helping us honour our mum’s memory.