My Story

Running the London Marathon for Marie Curie means more to me than I can properly put into words.

When I was growing up, my grandad was my best friend. I spent most of my school holidays with my grandparents, and some of my happiest childhood memories were made with them. He went through cancer twice. After fighting so hard the first time, it was heartbreaking when it came back, and tragically, he lost his second battle.

During that incredibly difficult time, Marie Curie were there for all of us. Marie Curie provides expert end-of-life care and support to people living with terminal illness and their families. Their nurses offer hands-on care in people’s homes and in hospices, making sure patients are comfortable, treated with dignity, and not alone. They also provide emotional support, practical guidance, and someone to lean on during the most overwhelming moments.

I was only 12 years old and found it so hard to process what was happening. Yet I vividly remember how kind and gentle the nurses were with me. In the middle of so much sadness, they brought warmth, compassion and reassurance that made the unbearable feel just a little more manageable. They supported my grandad with such dignity, and they were a constant source of strength for my grandma and the rest of our family too.

That is why I am beyond proud to now be running in aid of Marie Curie — to give back to a charity that gave my family so much when we needed it most, and to help them continue supporting other families going through heartbreak.

One of my favourite memories with my grandad links so perfectly to this moment. I remember sitting with him watching the London Marathon the year Paula Radcliffe was running. I turned to him and said, “I want to be like her.” Without hesitation, he said, “Okay then, come on — let’s start your training.” We went out to the bowling green at the back of their garden, where he used to play, and I ran laps while he timed me. I can still picture him standing there with his watch in hand, encouraging me every step of the way.

Now, every mile I run feels like a tribute to him. I’ll be thinking of those laps around the bowling green, of his encouragement, and of the incredible care Marie Curie gave him and all of us.

If you’re able to donate, you’re not just supporting me in completing this challenge — you’re helping Marie Curie continue to provide vital nursing care, expert support, and compassion to families facing the toughest of times.

Thank you so much for your support. It truly means everything. 💛