In April 2025, I will be running the London Marathon for Hospice UK, and in memory of my Dad.

My wonderful Dad was diagnosed with cancer at the beginning 2021. The short period from his diagnosis to his passing was an incredibly difficult time for all of us, trying to make the most of our final days with him while also managing his ongoing, complex care needs. We would absolutely not have managed without the support of two hospices, with the Rennie Grove Hospice nurses offering in-home care, and the incredible care of St Francis Hospice in his final days, where we were able to say goodbye in beautiful surroundings knowing he had the support he needed.

We were lucky to be referred to hospice care by a friend but it would not have been easy to find this support on our own. Currently, one in four UK families can’t get the care they need and deserve when their loved one is dying. This needs to change and together we can make sure everyone affected by death, dying and grief gets the care they need, when they need it.

Dad was loved by so many for his sense of humour and determination, if not for being particularly light on his feet. I hope I can carry those first two traits with me in training for and completing the Marathon. Any support would be greatly appreciated!