Ever since we lost my Dad, Roy Freer MBE, in September last year, a few family members have been debating between us on how best to honour his memory. He was always giving back to his community and we wanted to find a way to do the same. 

The hospice@home nurses from St Leonard’s Hospice were amazing caring for Dad in his final days. Their support was invaluable and, as a local charity caring for local people, their mission means a lot to us. With that in mind we have decided to raise as much money as we can for St Leonard’s this year in Dad’s name. And what better way to do so than putting ourselves through some ridiculous challenges? 

First up, it’s a trip down south as I am planning to take on the London Marathon in April (despite saying I would never do one again…). A huge thank you to York Knavesmire Harriers, as I was lucky enough to secure one of their ballot places to run. 

Next, it’s Roy’s granddaughters’ turn… 

Amy is planning a trip to the Peak District for a 54km ultramarathon (no you did not misread, that does say 54km!) on what would have been Dad’s 90th birthday in May. 

And finally, Laura will be training to take on her first ever(!) marathon on home turf at the Yorkshire Marathon in October, a route which runs right past the village Dad spent his life in and loved so much - Dunnington. The rest of the family will be getting involved too with a family relay entry to the Yorkshire Marathon.  

If you have received support from St Leonard’s we would love for you to get involved in our fundraising efforts too, why not join us for a leg of the relay or drop me a message and let’s get our heads together on other ways to raise some funds. 

We would really appreciate your support to help us honour a great man and to help St Leonard’s continue their fantastic work. Thank you!