26.2 Miles sounds a long way to run! In truth it doesnt compare to what my Mum went through, and the inspiration given to me by her strength and courage will get me through it and she will be with me every step of the way! 

My Mum was a wonderful, brave, selfless, kind lady who sadly lost her battle with Cancer on Christmas Day 2018.  Mum fought hard in her own way and had a very personal battle with Breast Cancer which she was determined wouldn't beat her.  She fought it off for as long as she could, drank all manner of smoothies, read many books, had support from many alternative therapies as well as conventional medicine but eventually the illness became too bad for her to cope with alone.  

Mum needed the support of Sue Ryder and in the last weeks of her life spent time at the Duchess of Kent Hospice.  The staff were amazing and nothing Mum required was too much trouble.  Their kindness was a great support to my Mum, my sister Hannah, my Mums partner Mike, my Partner Lauren, my family and me. 

Despite this being a difficult time they helped me no end trying to help from Devon whilst Mum was in Reading.  

They kept Mum as comfortable as possible and made visiting as easy as it could be right up until she could fight no longer.

After Mum passed away I was supported by the Sue Ryder Bereavement counselling service which they offer and I cant speak highly enough of them.  I had been keeping my grief locked up and was struggling.  This free service was an amazing help and supported me with my grief and helping me to process the fact that my Mum, my Rock and my hero was no longer with us. 

I now want to give something back and say Thank you to the Hospice and will be taking on the London Marathon in 2022 and running 26.2 miles.

To aid fundraising i will also be undertaking a 24 hour workout challenge along with the coaches - Ross, Ryan, Lewis & Craig at Diverse Fitness, Torquay on Friday 25th March (More details to follow!) Big thank you to Diverse Fitness for getting behind my fundraising and supporting this amazing cause. It is massively appreciated.

Please dig deep and support in any way that you can,

Thank you for reading and for any donation you can make, 

Ben