My Mum was a volunteer at The Sussex Beacon for more than 15 years and an ardent supporter of the great work the Charity does. Back in the early 2000’s, when Mum first started to give her time, there was a real stigma about HIV & AID's but that never bothered my Mum - in fact, in some ways, it probably made her even more determined to help because that was part of Mum's character. 

Not long after Mum passed away I was contacted by The Sussex Beacon to ask if it would be okay for a Team to run The Brighton Half Marathon in Mum's memory. I was really humbled that The Charity wanted to honour my Mum in this way and especially so in what is The Sussex Beacon's 30th anniversary year.

I was so touched that I decided I wanted to do something more than just be there on the day to support. I thought to myself, what better way than to actually take part and then I remembered.... it's me and I can't run for toffee! So, not put off by this minor setback, I decided to walk The Brighton Half Marathon in memory of my Mum and to help the charity which was a big part of her life for so long.

Those of you that know me will probably be less surprised by the fact that I decided to enlist the support of some of my nearest & dearest who were also very close to my Mum. And so, on Sunday 27th February, along with 6 very special people to both my Mum and myself, I will be walking 13.1 miles. This is a first for me (and probably a last too!) so if you feel able to support in any way that you can please know your donation will make a huge difference to The Sussex Beacon. And, of course, it would mean the world to me too.

With your support we can help raise the money for a nurse's salary. This means that The Sussex Beacon can continue its vital specialist care for people living with HIV, who might be recovering from treatment, getting help with new medication or seeking support for their mental health. Whilst medication now means that people can live long and full lives after being diagnosed with HIV, many still suffer from secondary illnesses such as dementia or cancer, or face psychological effects from the stigma and isolation still associated with a positive diagnosis.

Your support will be especially appreciated this year on The Sussex Beacon's 30th Birthday, ensuring that they can provide specialist HIV care for many years still to come.

On behalf of them, and my Mum, I thank you very much x