Katie and Francesca are running the London marathon on Sunday 22nd April 2012 and would like to raise as much money as possible for a local charity on the completion of this great race. They have chosen to raise money for Chesternut Tree House, a childrens hospice in Arundal, West Sussex. Katie was made aware of the childrens hospice and the fantasic support they provide for families when she heard the heart breaking news that her friends newborn baby had a life limiting condition and very little precious time to be part of a much loved family. The hospice allowed this family to share their very limitted time together in a supportive environment before their darling daughter passed away. This little girl was born within days of Katie's own son so has a place close to Katie's heart.

Chestnut Tree House is the only children's hospice in Sussex.They provide care for children and young people who have life-limiting illnesses such as Muscular Dystrophy, Cystic Fibrosis, Hunters Syndrome, Spinal Muscular Atrophy, multiple disabilities, cancer and progressive genetic disorders which means that they will probably die before they reach adulthood.

There are potentially 400 families with life-limited children in Sussex. The hospice provides a 'home from home' environment and offers support for the whole family. There are 10 children's bedrooms plus eight family rooms, a wet and dry play area, computer and music rooms, a multi sensory room and hydrotherapy pool and the house itself is set in beautiful gardens within an area of outstanding natural beauty.

The hospice costs £2.5 million per year to run and families are never charged for their care so rely heavily on the generosity, help and support of the people of Sussex. Please help Katie and Francesca  raise money for this much needed childrens hospice.