*** If you would like me to run in memory of your loved one, please let me know. After my blurb, please read for those I am running for***

My 9 year old son is running his first official race on 26th June- DONE!

For this, I am running the following:

London to Brighton day 2 Ultra marathon: 29th May DONE 29.6 miles!

UK Ultra South Downs 20 miles: 7th August DONE (21 miles)

The Big Half (half marathon 13.1 miles): 4th September DONE

The London Marathon 26.2 miles: 2nd October DONE

Last year, my father died, after battling with cancer. It truly was the cruelest thing I've ever bore witness to. 

I've lost so many other people, to this incredibly cruel illness- most of them local and most of them used The Martlet's. There's a super high chance we will know someone else, before too long, that needs their help, and I can't just sit back and not help. This is why I've chosen to run the London marathon and to help raise much needed funds. I simply can't not.

This is the last fundraiser I will do, for a while, so let's make it a big one please.

I am running with post covid lungs and chest, so it's not going to be easy. Make it worth it!

*** I am, of course, running for my dad. I will always run for him.

I am particularly running for my ex father in law, Kevin. He was very much like a second father to me, and this continued for the rest of our relationship, even after I split from his son. He was my eldest daughter's Grandfather, my grandsons' Great-Grandad and my friend. He cared and loved, quite unlike any other man I have ever had the honour of knowing. He was a beautifully eccentric soul with enthusiasm for life, right up to the end. We all miss him greatly, and I smile every time I run past the Royal Albion and see his heraldry on top of the entrance.

I am running for  Moira. One of my mum's closest friends, for so many many years. She misses her each and every day.

I am running for Vicky. My uncle's mother. An incredibly strong woman who fought courageously.

I am running for D. My fellow one knows there need be no words. Our lives are parallel and we do this together.

I am running for R. My number 1 supporter's husband. There are no words to express, but I hope she can show him the medal, when I'm done.

I am running for my friend, Hannah's dad. It is the best way I can show her all the love.

I am also running for my friend's best friend, Sarah. A life gone far too soon.

 I run for you all and I run for every single person that has been impacted. I hear you, I see you: I run for you.

All my love and light. 

Jo

Martlets is a local charity that provides terminally ill people in Brighton and Hove, and surrounding areas, with the very best care and support.Our expert team helps patients live life to the full during the precious time they have left.Martlets opened in 1997. The staff and services were formed from the merger of three separate charities: Coppercliff Hospice, Tarner and MacMillan Day Hospice. Across the hospice services, more than 25,000 local people have been supported and cared for since 1997.Most people receive care from us in their own homes. Outpatients also visit our hospice for pain relief, physiotherapy, counselling, welfare advice and social activities. Others choose to spend their final days here, or to join us as inpatients for respite care or symptom management.