I am running this year's London Marathon in aid of Pilgrims Hospices in memory of my mum and Uncle John.

Pilgrims run three hospices throughout East Kent which have been providing free end of life care and support for more than 30 years.

This is a charity very close to my family's heart.

When my mum was diagnosed with cancer in December 2011 they were there to provide support and advice to my mum, dad, brothers and me. They were always at the end of the telephone to answer our concerns. Thankfully my mum was able to spend her last few months at home surrounded by family and friends. The staff at Pilgrims visited and telephoned regularly to check we were all coping ok.  After my mum passed away in April 2012 they provided support and counselling to my family. We can never thank them enough for being there for us at our most difficult time.

My Uncle John was diagnosed with cancer and spent his last night/day being cared for by Pilgrims at one of their hospices.  I know my cousins and Aunty Diane were so grateful for the support they all received and for making my Uncle John comfortable right until the end.  Sadly my Aunty Diane has recently passed away from cancer.

Cancer has taken four members of my family in recent years.  Until the day comes when a cure is found, families like mine will always need the support of the dedicated nurses and staff at hospices.  That is why any donation you are able to give really will make a difference.

It costs £14 million a year to run the three hospices.  Only 25% of this cost is provided by the Government.  The rest is made up from donations.

Your donation and support would mean so much to me, my family and many other families they have helped.

Thank you in advance.

Claire xx