On 10th May, I’ll be running the Bristol Half Marathon with our incredibly special little girly in my heart - my beautiful niece, Rosie Roo. who we tragically lost at just two years old to SUDC (Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood).

I will never ever forget receiving that phone call in the morning and our whole world being turned upside down in a moment. Nothing prepares you for that. Nothing can truly describe the shock and pain of hearing those words and losing such a bright, joyful little soul so suddenly with no understanding why. Especially after only seeing her the day before....happy and well. Every day since then has been about learning to live with her not being with us anymore, holding her memory close, and supporting one another through something no family should ever face.

This run feels especially meaningful because just two days after, on 12th May, we reach one year of her being taken from this world. Taking on this challenge so close to that date feels incredibly emotional & overwhelming but it also feel so right to honour our Rosie. I'll be reminding myself and others that her little life continues to make an impact.

I’m also running for my amazing family. my sister Lori, her partner Ash, and my crazy niece Emmi. Watching them face the unimaginable with strength, love, and determination has been both heart-breaking and inspiring. This run is for them too, because on that day their world changed forever, and although so difficult they continue to navigate life with so much bravery and I am just so proud of them.

Anyone who knows me knows I’m pretty competitive. Usually I’d be plotting how quick I can do. But this time? It’s not about any of that at all. It’s all about her, remembering all those special memories. She will be my driving force for me making it across that finish line whether that be wobbling or shuffling (what am I doing again?! Ah!!!)

I’m running to raise awareness for SUDC, to support other families who’ve been through this devastating loss, and to celebrate Rosie’s beautiful short life by showing up, pushing through, and doing it all for her.

Any donation, big or small, would mean the world to me, to Lori, to Ash, to Emmi, and to everyone who loved Rosie. Your support will carry me through the tough bits (and trust me, there will definitely be tough bits and tears I am sure).

Thank you for reading, thank you everyone for all your words of support and thank you for helping me honour our precious Rosie Roo on a weekend that means so much. ✨

More information about SUDC UK: SUDC UK is a charity dedicated to raising awareness, funding research and bringing together families affected by Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood, SUDC.