I am running the Hackney Half Marathon to raise funds for the 5.8 million unpaid carers who go the extra mile every single day. On a personal level, I will be running in honour of my late Nanna and Pop - Maureen and Peter Lyons.

Nanna and Pop did were full-time carers for my aunty Cath until well into their 80s. Cath, who had high-needs, brought so much joy to my family's lives. Nanna and Pop committed their lives to Cath's care and wellbeing. There were challenges and sacrifices made but they never once complained. I am inspired by their selflessness, love and compassion and will be running for them and the millions of other unpaid carers.

I aim to beat my previous half marathon time of 2:02:29 and cannot wait to do so in my absolute favourite part of London!

About Carers UK:

Carers UK offers vital resources, information, advice, advocacy and a supportive community for those providing care to a loved one who is ill, disabled, or elderly.

Your donation, no matter how big or small, will help provide support to those who need it most.

£10 could enable two carers to join a supportive Care for a Cuppa online chat and take a break from their caring responsibilities

£25 could allow a trained adviser to run a Zoom advice session, helping to connect two carers who are new to caring, bringing them together to share crucial information and support

£50 could help make vital connections and answer e-mails from two people who find it difficult to pick up the phone and call us

With your support, we can make a real difference and help give unpaid carers the recognition and support they deserve.

Thank you so much!

Issy xx