On Sunday 27th April 2025, I will be completing the London Marathon to help raise funds for a charity so close to my heart, St Catherine’s hospice.

As some may know, I lost my mum to a long battle of breast cancer. My mum passed away peacefully at St Catherine’s hospice and the care and support the hospice gave me and my family was more than we could ever have asked and wished for.

My story doesn’t quite end there as what happened on the week of my mums passing was like a movie. My now husband, asked to marry me so my mum could witness before she passed. With just a week to live, St Catherine’s hospice allowed us to use their venue and have loved ones watch us marry in a private and comfortable setting to ensure my mum was right next to me, listening to the vows and knowing her wish of seeing me marry was coming true.

On the day of our VERY last minute wedding, my mum was by then non verbal, on many drugs to stay comfortable and pushing on to see us marry. St Catherine’s Hospice ensured my Mum was safely transferred to the hall and kept comfortable throughout the duration of the ceremony. They made small details on the day and surprised us with decorations to make it feel and look like a wedding, brought a drinks trolley round and just made us feel so welcome.

The next morning my mum sadly passed away and I truly believe she held on to see me get married. I know for certain without the hospices incredible care, my mum may not have been able to witness this.

The care and support didn’t end there as I was then offered bereavement therapy by one of their volunteer counsellors.

Whilst I sit here writing my story it’s still hard to put into words just how thankful myself and my family are. By running the marathon I’ll be showing just a fraction of how grateful I am by embarking on this huge physical and mental challenge.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story and thank you so much to those that have kindly donated!

Louise x