I'm raising funds for Hospiscare because their support enabled my beautiful mum to pass away in our family home.

From the day we received the cancer diagnosis to the moment she was taken away from us, we always found ways to make each other happy, we found strength we never knew we had, and we never left her side.

This all happened during the pandemic, which meant that seeing friends or having anyone over to the house was a risk we were not willing to take. Whether it was throwing a party or hosting a BBQ, celebrating at home has always been a tradition for my family, and not being able to do something along those lines for my mum still hurts to this day. My mum was always very active, healthy, and happy, and I'm choosing to celebrate her way of life by taking on the challenge of completing my first half marathon.

Me, my brothers and sister were willing to do whatever it took to bring her comfort and make her feel loved. But after listening to so many people's stories during my 5 years at Hospiscare, I know that other people aren't as fortunate. I couldn't even comprehend going through something like that without support. So as much as I'm dedicating this fundraiser to my mum, I'm also doing it for the people facing end-of-life care alone.

Hospiscare is currently facing a £2.5 million funding shortage, and now that we're in the new financial year, the effects of that are becoming apparent. Hospiscare recently cut capacity on the ward from 12 beds to 8 and reduced weekend community nursing services. I fear that there may be further cuts on the horizon unless we act.

Running is not something I've ever enjoyed or had any interest in, but this year I wanted to challenge myself to get fit by doing something meaningful in memory of someone I miss so dearly. 

Whether it's £5 or £50, I would greatly appreciate any contribution you can make towards this fundraiser!

Thanks, Martin