Today would have been my beautiful friend Matilda’s 29th birthday. She was a kind, radiant, and unforgettable person, who I still think about everyday.

This year, I have decided to run the Paris Marathon on the 13th April in her memory.

I would love to raise funds for a memorial bench in Brighton & Hove, a place where friends, family, and anyone who needs a moment of reflection can sit and feel whatever they need to feel.

I have been in touch with the council, and they have informed me that:

"Due to rising costs and supply issues, the previous offer was becoming less accessible for people wishing to donate a bench to the city. We will be reviewing the service and the pricing structures in Summer 2025."

Although bench requests are currently paused, I want to start fundraising now so that when the opportunity reopens, I can make this happen for Matilda.

The estimated cost is around £4,000, but if we raise more than needed—or if benches remain unavailable (or if not enough is raised)—I will use the funds to plant a tree in Matilda’s memory (or a few!) and donate the remainder to Papyrus Charity.

If you’d like to support, any donation—big or small—means the world. Thank you.

❤️ For Matilda ❤️