I will be running the marathon to honour Mam’s legacy. As a complete beginner to running, I want to prove to myself that with Mam’s strength within me, I can complete this challenge with a smile on my face, just like she did.

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Thank you for taking the time to visit this page to commemorate our beautiful Ilford Mam. 

Life started in Fiji in 1937. Mam grew up on the islands and came to India in the early 50s. In the 60s, our grandparents came to England to marry and raise their family. They brought up our Mum, Auntie and Uncle in London and eventually us three grandchildren.

We were so fortunate to grow up with an inspirational, strong, loving grandmother. She taught us how to fight and never give up at any hurdle. Over the last two years, Mam experienced so many difficult physical, emotional, and mental challenges. Words cannot describe the number of hurdles she crossed, without a single complaint or sign of giving up. She woke up everyday with a smile on her face and an “I’m okay” to greet anyone in her company.

In 2020 we nearly lost Mam to three cardiac arrests, a coma, sepsis, and multi-organ failiure. However, she defied all odds and proved the doctors wrong by powering through her time in ICU. In 2021, she was diagnosed with terminal lung cancer and again did not give up lightly. Despite having an emergency pacemaker fitted in October this year and catching Covid in hospital, Mam still fought through and came home with us. In November 2022, Ilford Mam was ready to rest and reunite with Ilford Dad.

We will never forget Ilford Mam because her spirit will be with us every day. We will miss her smile, bright green eyes, and fearless energy. She was made of steel and had a heart of gold to share with everyone. This was her legacy, and we are determined to honour this in her name.

We love you Mam,

Rest in Peace

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