Next year, myself and Ry will be taking on the challenge of the London Marathon in memory of my beautiful Mum, who spent her final days in the care of Weston Hospicecare. Until Mum became ill, we didn’t truly understand the incredible work hospices do — or how much families like ours need them. When caring for Mum at home became too much, we made the call to Weston Hospicecare, and from that moment on, they were nothing short of incredible. They kept Mum comfortable, welcomed us at any time, and made sure we had the space and support we needed to simply be with her. Their kindness didn’t end when Mum passed; they continued to support our whole family with compassion and care.

Weston Hospicecare provides specialist palliative care to people with life-limiting illnesses, as well as emotional, psychological, spiritual, and practical support for their loved ones. Only 20% of their funding comes from the NHS, meaning they must raise £5.5 million each year to continue their vital work. We can honestly say we will be forever grateful for what they gave us in Mum’s final days, and now it’s our turn to give back.

I have always dreamt of running the London Marathon — and together, we will be doing it for this amazing charity. Next year, Mum would have been celebrating her 60th birthday, so it feels like the perfect time to take on this challenge in her honour. I know she would’ve been there at the finish line cheering us on, and that thought will carry us every step of the way, along with your donations. Please, if you can, dig deep and help us raise as much as possible so that Weston Hospicecare can continue to support the families who need them, just like they did for us.