On May 11th, 2025, I will take part in the 10km Great Bristol Run, in loving memory of David Waring, my late father-in-law, who was taken far too soon on May 8th, 2024, after a brief but courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.

As a family, we’ve come together as Team Grizzly to honour David’s memory and raise funds for Pancreatic Cancer UK. If you are wondering where the team name came from, David lived by the motto, "If you're going to be a bear, be a grizzly" – words that perfectly encapsulated his larger-than-life spirit.

For those that didn't know him, he lived life dedicated to everything he put his mind too. After a successful career in aeronautical engineering, he became was a tireless volunteer for the Samaritans, an intrepid sailor and a passionate motorbike racer and enthusiast. He was also very skilled at woodturning and had even taking up bell ringing with his wonderful wife Nat. Since the first day I met him, his generosity, love and humour shined through and his absence is deeply felt by all who knew him.

Our goal as a team is twofold: to celebrate the amazing man he was and to support the crucial work of Pancreatic Cancer UK in the hope that our efforts will contribute to a future where no family has to endure the pain of losing a friend or loved one to this devastating disease.

For those that know me, you will know that running is not one of my best skills. I've been building up a little, but I do not underestimate how challenging a 10k will be. So every bit of support to this cause will be extremely appreciated.