Half Marathon in aid of Matilda's Mission

Hi, my name is Stephen. On 12th October 2025 I will be running the 'Manchester Half Marathon' (21km) in aid of Matilda's Mission. Matilda's Mission are a local not-for-profit group who support families who have experienced baby or child loss. Matilda's Mission provide peer support 'stay and play' sessions for families, monthly meet ups for bereaved dads, seasonal activities for families to get together with others who 'get it' and sibling boxes to support children who have lost a sibling.

In 2021, my wife and I lost our daughter, Willow, during pregnancy. Following this we became aware of Matilda's Mission who were a great support to us during this time, allowing us a space to be with others who understood. Sadly, in 2022, we experienced another loss, our daughter Rosie, also during pregnancy. The work Matilda's Mission do to support families like ours, is immeasurable. The group is run by volunteers, and is reliant on donated funds to keep doing the work they do for bereaved families.

Following the loss of my daughter, Willow, I took up running as a way of coping with my grief. Running was therapeutic, allowed me to focus, and gave me time to think about my daughter. Life didn't quite go as planned, and running took a back seat. I have now decided to set myself this challenge and run in memory of my daughters, Willow and Rosie, whilst raising money for an amazing cause that will help other families that find themselves in the position we did.

My training is well underway, so please donate what you can, every penny is hugely appreciated (and will keep me going when I am training over the next few months!)

Thanks,

Stephen