My wife Helen Snelson died in August 2024 from cancer, leaving a void in many lives. And yet her generous, grateful, can-do spirit lives on in those who knew and loved her. The History Half for Helen is one example of many, and I’m thrilled to be joining some of Helen’s colleagues from the world of History education for this event. I’m hoping to get round the course in under two hours. Following an eight-year break from regular running, the engine still fires smoothly but the rickety 1968 chassis needs more careful handling.

Helen believed that everyone should have access to high-quality healthcare – a belief that was strongly reinforced by her experience of excellent NHS care throughout the two-and-a-half years of her illness. She spent her final days in a hospice whose staff looked after her with levels of skill, respect and tenderness that were moving and inspiring to witness.

Having lived such a good life, Helen was enabled by the hospice team to die a good death. In supporting Marie Curie Cancer Care, you will help others to receive the high-quality end-of-life care that might one day become, as Helen hoped, a birthright for all people.