My friend Namsong Rai died last month after living with cancer for two years. He was fifteen. His death left a quiet space in our school and in everyone who knew him. He spent his days at Bromsgrove School with a calm presence that people noticed even when he said nothing. He shaped the Bromsgrovian community in his own way. Students and staff knew him for his steady kindness and his gentle way of moving through each day.

He loved small creatures. Bugs, beetles, tiny things most people walk past. He cared for them with patience. He spent time in the fields and the trees. He liked the simple rhythm of the natural world. He found comfort where others saw nothing. That taught me to slow down and see life differently. Having him as my friend shaped me. I will hold that for a long time.

I am running fifteen kilometres in his honour. One kilometre for each year he lived. I want this run to carry his story and his values forward. Half of the donations will support cancer research so others face a stronger fight. The other half will support people in Gaza. This was one of his final wishes. He wanted his name to bring help to people who lived with fear and loss every day.

I will run on Sunday the sixteenth of November. I hope you support this effort. Your help keeps his memory alive and brings relief to others in need.