I have the huge privilege of running the 2025 London Marathon on behalf of Sue Ryder, in memory of my amazing Mother-in-Law, Claire.

In the spring of 2023 Claire developed various signs and symptoms of ill health, which at the time seemed to be unrelated. By the summer Claire's health slowly started to decline, and she was advised by her GP to visit A&E where she was initially diagnosed with a pulmonary embolism. Claire was admitted to hospital for further tests, and shortly afterwards received a diagnosis for bowel and metastasized liver cancer.

Upon her return from hospital Claire moved in with my wife Maisie and I whilst further tests were run and treatment plans discussed. Just weeks later, after initially believing that she would be able to make somewhat of a recovery following treatment, we were told that her cancer had been ongoing for 2-3 years with no symptoms until the few months prior to her hospital admission. Devastatingly, the cancer was so advanced that she could not be treated, and we were told Claire only had a few weeks to live.

Her health rapidly declined, which as you can imagine took a toll on all of us; watching Claire go from the life of the party - the first one on any dance floor - to struggling to get up from the sofa. Claire very quickly needed specialist help, and Maisie and I didn't know where to turn. We discussed moving her into a hospice for end of life care; but ultimately decided that we wanted to care for her at home so we could all make the most of spending time together, including her being with her dog Kenny. However, we had found out during Claire's hospital stay that Maisie was pregnant with our first child, and Claire was worried the stress could have an effect on the baby and Maisie's pregnancy.

At this stage we knew we needed support, so we reached out to the amazing team at Sue Ryder. Everything was arranged for us, whether that was for a specialist hospital bed to be delivered, or nurses to administer medication; everything we needed was covered. We also had carers visit twice a day to ensure Claire was comfortable and supported as she became less mobile.

The worst few months of our lives was made bearable by the amazing support from the Sue Ryder team. I genuinely could not be more grateful and thankful to these amazing human beings. Not only did they ensure Claire remained dignified and comfortable, they supported Maisie and I too. Claire passed away when Maisie was 14 weeks pregnant, and our daughter Poppy Claire Swift was born in April 2024. The chance for her to meet her Nanny was taken away, however she will always carry Claire's name.

Sue Ryder supports people through the most difficult times of their lives. Whether that's a terminal illness or the loss of a loved one, they're there when it matters. Their doctors, nurses and carers give people the compassion and expert care they need to help them live the best life they possibly can.