Hi Everyone,

I am going to attempt to run the London Landmarks Half Marathon in April for Slide Away Charity, chosen specifically as I truly believe every child's bereavement story deserves to be heard. Too often children and young people's grief can be overlooked. They matter too.

I shall be running in memory of my beautiful angel grandson Arlo, sadly taken too soon, a special friend, Peter, who was tragically killed by a drunk driver when we were teenagers and for every child and young person who has been bereaved of a relative or family friend.

Research from the Children's Bereavement Network notes: 1 in 18 children will be bereaved of a parent or main carer before their 18th birthday.

At 56, when I run the half marathon, with a lung condition, dressed as a Polar Bear, this is a personal challenge but I am going to attempt to raise awareness of the vital support we provide.

Slide Away is a small Kent-based charity which offers support to children and young people who have been bereaved of a family member or friend, or who have a parent or sibling with a life-limiting illness. We help them to understand their emotions and feelings around death and help protect their memories.

Every year, Slide Away supports more than 250 children and young people and their families. The impact of a loved one's death can be devastating for a child, but with timely, evidence-based support, we know they can flourish, reach their full potential and lead a full life.

Slide Away is 100% donor and grant funded so every donation makes a real difference to Kent's bereaved children and young people.

Please help us to continue to provide support for the children and young people of Kent.

Every single donation will be put to valuable use.Thank you for taking the time to read this.

Bonny