As a paediatric nurse, I was used to supporting sick children and their families through scary and lonely times in hospital. I never thought it would happen to my family.

But in 2016 my bubbly 3-year-old, Filly, became critically unwell with sepsis, and was subsequently diagnosed with cancer. Throughout 26 months of hospital treatment, we were fortunate to receive skilled and caring play support which helped Filly (and our whole family) through some of the worst days. From play specialists, hospital clowns, comedians and other brilliant staff, play helped Filly connect back to the normal aspects of being a kid. Cancer steals so much of childhood, but play is a way of giving children back some of what they lose with illness.

On a more personal note, while Filly was unwell, I was also hospitalised, and unable to achieve any form of self care. Running for me has been a really important part of showing cancer the door. I run now because I am free to lace up my trainers, shut the front door and escape into the countryside and clear my head. Cancer for us is over, but childhood illness continues to wreak havoc on millions of families' lives in the UK every year.

I'm running for Starlight to support the vital work that they do for children and families facing illness and hospitalisation. I'm running for Filly, and I'm running for those who can't - because they're busy at the bedside of their child.

You can read more about Starlight below:

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Starlight are passionate about protecting every child's right to play, which takes them to the bedsides of some of the most poorly children in the UK, and making sure they have the tools to play through their anxiety, fear and loneliness.

Life in hospital isn't easy, especially when you're young. Suddenly you find yourself in a strange and lonely place full of unfamiliar sights and sounds.

In donating, you are directly helping children to cope with serious illness by giving them tools to manage these times when they need it most. Not only this, but you're also helping to support their siblings and parents by providing vital funds to provide them with funding family breaks and away days, giving them a chance to make comforting, life lasting memories together, no matter what the future may bring.

If you can donate, any donation no matter the size is massively appreciated.