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Rugile Skemaite

London Landmarks Half Marathon in memory of Renata Skemiene

Fundraising for Grief Encounter
£1,392
raised of £1,000 target
Donations cannot currently be made to this page
Event: London Landmarks Half Marathon 2024, on 7 April 2024
£10,000 can fund Grief Encounters programme of therapeutic workshops where children are supported creatively through art, drama, music and play therapy.

Story

On the 7th of April 2024, Myself and Armina will be running the London Landmarks Half Marathon.

I am dedicating this run in memory of my mum who passed away on the 11th of April 2022. As many of you may know my mum was battling stomach cancer for a couple years, with the last being during Covid. My mum was strong, smart and determined. She never allowed the cancer to consume her, her goal was always clear. It was to fight to stay alive not for herself but for the people she loved. She did that a lot, she cared deeply for those who cared for her.

Grief is an interesting aspect of life, something I am still figuring out 2 years on. Some would describe it as a language spoken in tears, sighs and moments of silent contemplation. For the most part, it is definitely a lot of crying and a lot of processing. However, it is also can be very different for everyone. There isn't a manual or step by step guide on getting over it all. For someone who is a planner, a to-do lister and goal setter. This has 100% been the hardest aspect of life my brain has ever had to comprehend. I am thankful for the people still around me, for the support system both me and my sister have. It will be a endless journey, one that has its ups and downs, a lot of learning and strength but also full of love.

This brings me to say no one should have to ever go through grief without support. Grief Encounter is a charity that provides support to bereaved children, young adults and families who may not have right support around them. They provide hope and healing with the help of professionals. Offering them a way through anxiety, fear and isolation. Its sad and heart-breaking for young people to lose someone so close whilst still having to navigate through life and be able to see positives that life has to bring.

At the start I mentioned my mum fought in every way she could to keep herself alive for us. Well for me, this marathon is not just about conquering miles. Its a tribute to her enduring influence and impact on my life and many others. With every step, I honour her memory carrying her light onward.

My sister Gabriele unfortunately had to drop out of the marathon due to lower back injuries on doctors orders. She will be there however front row on the day cheering both Armina and myself on.

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About the campaign

£10,000 can fund Grief Encounters programme of therapeutic workshops where children are supported creatively through art, drama, music and play therapy.

About the charity

Grief Encounter

Verified by JustGiving

RCN 1175837
Grief Encounter aims to relieve the emotional distress of bereaved children, young people and their families. We help by developing and promoting resources and by raising public awareness of bereavement issues for children. No-one can wave a magic wand but Grief Encounter can help the journey.

Donation summary

Total raised
£1,392.00
+ £324.25 Gift Aid
Online donations
£1,392.00
Offline donations
£0.00

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