I'm taking on the iconic London Marathon in 2022 to help raise vital funds for #TeamStAnns.

I'm running the London marathon on 2nd October 2022 in memory of my mum and dad, who both lost their lives due to cancer. I hope to raise as much as possible for St Ann's Hospice in Manchester where my mum spent the last 7 weeks of her life.

My dad, David O'Brien, sadly died in November 2013 after battling bladder and brain cancer in the previous couple of years. Last year, in October 2021, my mum, Jean O'Brien, died after a one and a half year battle with lung cancer. Both are hugely missed by both myself and my sister, Joanne, and our families, and all of mum and dad's friends (of which there were plenty!)

This time last year, Joanne and I visited mum regularly in St Ann's Hospice during the last few weeks of her life. It was, of course, a difficult period for all three of us but we were reassured by the wonderful care that mum received at St Ann's. The staff were attentive, considerate and professional in everything they did for mum -  also helping myself and my sister as the need arose. Mum was so strong in her battle, always thinking more about us than herself. But that was our mum!

I am fortunate to be running this year's London marathon to raise money for St Ann's - trying to pay back as much as possible for the help and support they gave my family last year.  What I did not realise until talking to people last year at St Ann's was how much hospices rely on charitable fundraising - knowing this now, I really want to help.

I have previously run four marathons - but this will be my first London marathon - and I am thrilled to be given this opportunity by St Ann's. I'm hoping to do it in just under 4 hours. Please support me, my mum and dad, and especially St Ann's Hospice.

Thank you so much, Peter