In November 2021, I lost my dear father, to an aggressive form of terminal lung cancer called Mesothelioma. It was caused by asbestos exposure in the 70s when he ran his own building company. My father was 83 when he died, he had always been fit and healthy, he had never been in hospital, he had a personal trainer and worked out regularly. He was diagnosed in June 2021 and passed away in November at the Martlets Hospice in Hove. Watching him suffer was extremely sad, but he faced it with so much strength and dignity. He was so appreciative of his happy and healthy life and said many times that if his time was up, then he considered himself very fortunate.

Over the course of his illness, we were supported by the incredible team at the Martlets Hospice in Hove. They provided us with support at home including a hospital bed, a reclining chair, bathroom aids, night time nursing care etc.  Sadly, my lovely mum has Alzheimer’s and was unable to process or understand what was happening so my sister and I dropped everything to care for them both over the last few months of our Dad’s life. We couldn't have managed without the constant support of the Martlets team who were always on hand to listen, and offer support and advice.

Eventually my dad was admitted into the hospice for his final few days, where he passed away peacefully and with so much dignity. I’ll never forget watching him leave his home for the final time to go into the hospice and trying to gently explain to my mum that he wouldn’t be home for dinner that evening (she had laid a place at the table for him). Two days later we had to explain to her that he had died. That was pretty tough. 

The team at the Martlets were simply amazing. From the moment my Dad was taken into the hospice, they welcomed us all with open arms and with so much respect, kindness and care. Despite the sadness, he had the most beautiful and special send off from this world. To this day I consider it an honor and a privilege to have held my father's hand throughout his final hours and to have been fortunate enough to say goodbye. Whilst sad of course, it was also the most special, precious, and unforgettable time. I will be forever grateful to Martlets staff for their support and compassion that evening, and throughout the preceding months.

I have always said that in my opinion the Martlets is “a gateway to heaven run by angels”. It is such a special place, run by simply incredible, and compassionate people. 

In the months following my father’s death, we were faced with even more challenges including moving my mother into a residential dementia care home, and clearing and selling the family home. It was so sad, and hard for us all, but I’ve been amazed by my mum's strength and resilience despite her dementia. My mother also has rare and debilitating lung condition which makes her extremely vulnerable to covid, so as a family we've had to be very mindful of her health and the risk that covid continues to pose to her and others in the care home.

Over the last year, I’ve personally had to dig very deep to try and stay strong. There have been times when I’ve felt pretty overwhelmed, so I turned to running ( and possibly a few G&Ts!). I invested in a new pair of running shoes and put together an awesome "feel good" play list. I’ve never been sporty or athletic, but pounding the pavements and listening to music has kept me physically fit and mentally strong during a very tough time. In 2022 I managed 78 runs and clocked up 730km - not too bad for someone that still doesn't consider herself a real runner!

Of course, I couldn’t have got through the last 18 months without the support of my immediate family and some truly wonderful friends. I will be forever grateful for their continual support and kindness when I needed it most.

I’ve never entered a charity run before, so this half marathon is quite a challenge for me. This run, in my hometown of Brighton & Hove, (where my father died) is dedicated to so many people.

It is for my work colleagues and team at IMEX for their kindness and for supporting me during such a challenging time.

It is for my family and friends to say thank you for being there, especially my husband Nick, my kids (George and Ellie) and Daisy the dog.

It is for my sister who is stronger than she knows.

It is for my mother, the strongest, bravest and most resilient person I know.

It is for the staff at Pinehurst care home (our new extended family!), for taking such good care of my mum - we are so grateful to have found such a wonderful and caring home for her. 

It is for the amazing team at the Martlets Hospice to say the biggest thank you for their incredible care and support.

First and foremost it is for my Dad, who I’ve learnt so much from and who I miss every single day. I’m so grateful and proud to be your daughter, and I hope you’ll be cheering me on up there.

Thank you for supporting me and for supporting the Martlets:

About the Martlets:

Over the past 25 years, Martlets has supported more than 25,000 people affected by terminal illness, in and around Brighton and Hove and the surrounding areas. Our dedicated end-of-life care services offer hope, purpose, and possibility, helping people live their lives to the full in the time they have left.At Martlets, we believe that everyone deserves compassion and dignity in death, and we work tirelessly to provide care, comfort, and choice at home and in our hospice. Were available 24/7 to provide specialist support and advice, and were here to help family and loved ones too. Every year, Martlets supports more than 3,000 local people affected by terminal illness.Our care is only free thanks to the generosity of local people. Every donation small or large will help keep Martlets caring.