Archie Strong was just six years old when his mum, Joanna, died of a brain tumour. St Wilfrid’s was by her side every step of the way, and Archie, now aged 20, completed the Brighton Marathon in April, raising more than £1,100 for the hospice. Here’s what Archie had to say.

“St Wilfrid’s Hospice has been a very big part of my life since I was six years old. When my mother fell ill with a brain tumour shortly after my 6^th birthday in April 2010, she was referred to St Wilfrid’s.

The service they provided for her and my family was above and beyond anything we could have imagined, and I have always appreciated and respected all the effort the nurses and other staff members went to to give my mother the best last few months of her life.

I remember them keeping my brother and I company by playing various games with us and throwing a birthday party at the hospice for my brother so our mother could attend. The nurses even made a special banner.

When our mother returned home for her last months, the nurses regularly checked in and made sure we were all okay. They also signposted us to various support networks during her illness, and for when she would eventually pass away. Unfortunately, that happened in January 2011, a few months before my 7^th birthday. Although it has been 14 years since she died, I still miss her.

After watching the London Marathon last year and being inspired, I entered the ballot. I didn’t get a place, but St Wilfrid’s kindly offered me one of their charity places for the Brighton Marathon.

My running experience was non-existent at that stage, but I was determined to put all my effort into it and make the most of the opportunity to raise money for a charity I hold dear to my heart.

On the day, there was the most supportive crowd, and I had lovely messages from my friends, family and acquaintances. I feel I truly lived through a great day that I will cherish until the day I die.

Doing Brighton Marathon was not only about reigniting my passion to live life, but to also honour my lovely mother, who was given the utmost care and kindness at St Wilfrid’s Hospice.

I have always a held a deep appreciation for everything the staff did, always going above and beyond. To run the marathon for St Wilfrid’s was a massive privilege. Thank you for giving me this special opportunity.”

Pictured: Archie at the marathon; Archie with his mum

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