****Following the postponement of the 2020 London Marathon, I am now running in the 2022 London Marathon on Sunday 2nd October. This will form part of a larger challenge of running 100 in Organised Running Events throughout 2022. This is consisting of a variety of events starting at the Keighley 10k on Sunday 27th March and ending at the Bolton Abbey Half Marathon on Sunday 14th November.****

Sue Ryder supports people through the most difficult times of their lives. Whether that’s a terminal illness, the loss of a loved one or a neurological condition – they’re there when it matters. Their doctors, nurses and carers give people the compassion and expert care they need to help them live the best life they possibly can.

In late December 2017, my Father-In-Law Nigel Cutler passed away aged 54. He had cancer and battled with it over a short period of time. The quick decline in Nigel’s health was a huge shock to all the family and his network of friends in Keighley and beyond. This all happened at a time when so many exciting experiences were coming up for the family (his first grandchild and his son getting married).

In this difficult time, palliative nurses from Sue Ryder Manorlands Hospice were on hand to make Nigel as comfortable as possible with his pain in Airedale hospital and at home allowing him to continue making jokes and being the Nigel we loved. The nurses were a fantastic support system for the immediate family, whether it be the friendly arm around the shoulder, explanation and knowledge of the various options and support available to us or just a caring person to talk to in times of
need. Ultimately, they were there when we all needed them.

Following Nigel’s passing, the support from Sue Ryder Manorlands  Hospice continued in unexpected ways. Various family members were invited to a number of different services at Manorlands, which included  online counselling sessions, yoga and meditation sessions as well as somewhere to feel welcome and included, to name a few, which made a significant difference to help deal with our grief. These types of services are not expected but make huge difference to the community who are experiencing difficult and emotional situations like we did.

Running the London marathon is my way that I can give something back and help supporting this fantastic charity in its phenomenal work by raising money and awareness for Sue Ryder in memory of my brilliant Father-in-law. 

Thank you for your help in supporting this wonderful charity!