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Fun, Sporty Experiences and Giving Back: My Family’s Journey

Every New Year, I find myself reflecting on the past year and setting fresh resolutions. One of my favourite traditions is incorporating a fun sporty challenge into my goals, and it’s become a family tradition as well. I love finding fun ways to challenge myself and my loved ones while on occasions raising money for causes close to our hearts. It’s a fun way to bond, push ourselves, and give back. Of course, at the start of each year, everyone agrees to take part, only to start second-guessing their decision when the big day arrives! But no matter how tough it gets, they always come through in the end. 


One of the most memorable challenges was the South Coast Mighty Hike in 2024 with family and friends. I had just finished my radiotherapy, and despite feeling the weight of it all, I completed the hike along the South Downs Way. It was a half marathon in support of Macmillan Cancer Support, and while the scenery was breath-taking, those last few miles really tested us. There were groans, but also plenty of laughs and memories that made every step worth it.


Then there was the Shine Night Walk in 2023. My husband and I took on this half marathon through the streets of London while I was going through chemotherapy. It was such an emotional and powerful experience, especially when we saw the whole city lighting up in support of Cancer Research UK. Walking alongside so many others, all united for the same cause, really reminded me of how powerful it is when we come together. 


A little further back, in 2022, my daughter and I had a blast trying out flying trapeze at Regent’s Park. I’ll admit, I was nervous about swinging through the air, but it turned out to be one of the best experiences we’ve shared, and we had so much fun doing it together.



In 2021, my husband and I tackled the Obstacles Colour Run, which mixed running with obstacles, colour powder, and music. It was one of those events where you end up laughing so hard, it doesn’t even feel like a workout!

But the most special moment of 2020 was when our daughters decided to donate their hair to the Little Princess Trust. They could have donated 7 inches, but both of them gave 12 inches, helping children who had lost their hair due to cancer treatment. It was one of those moments as a parent where you’re just bursting with pride at their kindness and thoughtfulness.

One of my personal highlights was running the Medoc Marathon in 2019 with my girlfriends. It was a race filled with laughter, camaraderie, and the joy of crossing the finish line together in celebration!


In 2018, my husband and I ran a 10K at Epping Forest for Cancer Research UK. It wasn’t easy, but we pushed through together, knowing the cause we were supporting made every mile worth it.


And in 2017, we took part in the London Colour Run with family and friends. It was such a fun event, watching the girls run, jog, and sometimes even dance their way through the colourful course. By the time we crossed the finish line, we were all covered in colourful powder, but more importantly, we were united in supporting a cause that means so much to us.


It’s funny how, despite the challenges, these events become cherished memories we hold onto. Each one brings us closer together and reinforces the importance of pushing ourselves for something bigger than just crossing the finish line. If you’re inspired by our journey, we’d love for you to support our fundraising efforts. Every donation makes a difference, and together, we can make an even bigger impact for causes that mean so much.

I’d love to hear about your own family adventures and experiences! Whether it’s hiking, running, or trying something completely new, it’s always inspiring to hear how others are pushing themselves. What activities have you taken on as a family? What memories have you created together? I’m also always looking for fresh ideas for future adventures with my family, so if you’ve got any fun or unique suggestions, I’d love to hear them! Share your stories and ideas with me, I can’t wait to be inspired by your journeys!

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