In May, inspired by a family member, I decided to try a couch to 5k. I have never been much of a runner, but thought I’d give it a go. 

Early into the 9 week programme, my dad was diagnosed with aggressive cancer and life changed significantly. All the clichés about running kicked in, it gave me some space to think and decompress. 

Dad spent his final days in the Rowans Hospice. The care he received was incredible and the support we got was beyond words. It was while I was with dad in the hospice that I decided I wanted to make sure I could repay them for all the care and compassion we received as a family. 

And it was there I signed up for the Great South Run. This will be a big challenge for me but totally worth it!

The Rowans do incredible work and is a charity. It’s hard to explain how difficult navigating the NHS and adult social care is and how daunting our dads end of life care felt…then the Rowans stepped in. All we had to care about from the day we arrived was that dad was at peace and we were able to spend the best time we could with him. 

For those of you who have had the hospice as a part of your life you will know how special they are there. If you’ve not, I really can’t describe it but trust me they are real life angels. 

I’m raising money to help them to continue supporting families like mine