Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page! Before you read, you may want to watch the short video I made to reflect my campaign: http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x5g7rki.

I've set up this page in memory of my dad on the 8th anniversary of his death which, this year, coincides with Mother's Day meaning it's double the chance to honour the two people who brought you into the world, the two people who loved and cared for you selflessly from the day you were born and the two people who will always remain in your heart whether they're here with you or there in spirit. 

Back on the grief stricken day of 26th March 2009 me and my brother (aged 15 and 11 at the time) lost the one man who shaped us into the people we are today. At just the age of 41 my dad passed away after a long battle with illness; it was a sudden loss, a traumatic time for the family and even now, the emptiness never goes away. 

At the time there wasn't any aid that fulfilled every aspect of losing a loved one, which is why I'm even more grateful and proud to support my chosen charity - Once Upon A Smile. Their countless, fundamental, inspiring hard work they provide bereaved families is incredible and essential for the healing process of grief. 

Even though it's been eight years since I lost my dad, the pain and numbness never leaves me and only heightens as the build up to anniversaries and significant days come around. This year I wanted to take that sad emotion and turn it into a positive emotion - to hopefully raise crucial funds in his memory and ensure many other families receive that emotional, practical, and financial support during such a tough ordeal.

Remembering the good times and the memories you hold close is an alleviation when you find yourself in hardship. To miss someone is one thing, but to remember someone for the shining light they were is another. It's so important to reflect on those memories that make you smile, to express your feelings and to celebrate your loved one, the life they lived and the aura they gave; the solid foundation of Once Upon A Smile enables that in children and beyond through their bereavement support groups, their comforting group events, memory days and much more.

No matter how big or small, any donation counts. I will be donating a pound for every year I've lived without my dad's beaming face, crazy antics, and kind heart and I'd love for you to participate in your own personal way. Tell me your special memories with your parents, tell me which specific moment always makes you smile and give back to an amazing charity whilst doing so. Together, let's unite on behalf of those missing a part of their story! 

Thanks so much for taking the time to read and to contribute, I know my Dad will be looking down with a great big grin of pride and a massive ego knowing his memory is in the limelight for the pivotal benefit of so many people suffering deep loss. If you could spare a few £s to help towards the best delivery possible I (and I'm sure they) will be most grateful.

(Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.)