For those who may or may not know me, Maggie was a huge part of my life. I’ve decided to run the Hackney Half Marathon on 18th May 2025, in memory of “Mags.”

Maggie was my adopted grandmother, a vibrant, fun-loving woman who had been in my life forever. She was a small Sri Lankan lady, with an infectious laugh and a playful habit of flirting with your boyfriend. When I moved flats and ended up close by, I spent more time with her – having tea, enjoying her favourite Indian takeaway, or watching ghost shows (which I hated!). Above all, she was a beacon of love and always happy and willing to help anyone... even if she broke her leg in the process (true story).

Maggie was brave through her fight with breast cancer. Although there were struggles and times of loneliness due to Covid, she was always incredibly upbeat given the circumstances.

I am thankful that she found peace in her final days thanks to the support of St Christopher’s Hospice. Maggie passed away peacefully in a surrounding she wished for, after her usual morning cup of tea having spent the week with her loved ones.

Cancer is cruel. Maggie lived a full life, but many women won’t get that chance.

I am running for the charity CoppaFeel! who are dedicated to raising awareness about breast cancer in young people. I’d be incredibly grateful for any donation. Thank you!

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CoppaFeel! are the UK’s only youth focused breast cancer awareness charity, and we’re on a mission to get every 18-24 year old checking their chest.

We educate people on the signs and symptoms of breast cancer and encourage them to check their chests regularly, so that if they notice something unusual they are empowered to contact their GP and advocate for themselves. We do this because when diagnosed early and accurately, breast cancer treatments are more effective and survival rates are higher. Early detection truly can save lives.