When my Mum was diagnosed with Thyroid Cancer during my second year at university, everything changed. It was an incredibly difficult and painful time, as she battled the disease for 11 months. Unfortunately, she passed away before I finished my degree, and I was left to navigate the world without her support.

My mum was my biggest cheerleader, she was always there to lift me up and encourage me, no matter what I was facing. Even in the darkest of times, she lived with an incredible positivity and determination, making the most of every moment, even as she fought cancer. Losing her was the hardest thing I’ve ever experienced, and as I move through life without her, I try to remember her strength and ability to find joy in the toughest of situations. Through my grief, I’ve learned to carry her legacy with me, to honor her by living the life she would have wanted me to live.

Now, I share my journey in hopes that others who are experiencing loss can feel less alone. Grief is such a deeply personal experience, and it can often feel isolating. But by sharing my story, I am creating a space where others can connect, find solace, and know that it’s okay to grieve, to miss, and to keep going. My mum’s spirit is with me every step of the way, and I continue to live my life in a way that would make her proud. I carry her love, strength, and positivity in everything I do.

I’m running the London Landmarks Half Marathon to raise money for Its Time Charity, an organization that supports young adults experiencing the loss of a parent, just as I did. I hope to use my run to honor my mum’s memory, help others in need, and continue pushing forward in a way she would be proud of.