Running in memory of Mum
When Josh from Torquay (pictured left with his three brothers) was just 14 years old, his mum Andrea was diagnosed with a Grade 4 glioblastoma, and she sadly died less than a year later. Now 22, Josh is taking on the Torbay Half Marathon on Sunday 20 September with his brothers, raising vital funds for the hospice that cared for their mum – at home and in the Inpatient Unit.
A challenge with real meaning
“I signed up to do the Torbay Half Marathon in memory of my mum who sadly passed away from cancer eight years ago this September,” says Josh. “Rowcroft was instrumental in her care and the support that my family received – and I got to spend ten amazing months with my Mum, Dad and brothers during this time making memories that I will cherish for a lifetime – so every chance I get to do something to help the hospice, I will take with open arms.”
The impact of Rowcroft’s care
“Looking back, it was such a horrendous time for my family, but it was made that little bit easier by the incredible support from Rowcroft,” says Josh. “I am not quite sure words can ever describe the impact Rowcroft has had on my life – whether that was the doctors and nurses that would look after Mum day in day out, the chefs who would cook us extra food whilst we were there, the gardeners who made sure there was a space we could play cricket in the grounds, or the doctor that took the time to come back to hospice, outside of his working hours to explain to a confused 14-year-old boy what was going on.
“There are so many people who deserve a thank you. The support of Rowcroft wasn’t just for Mum, it was for my whole family.”
Giving back
For Josh, the Torbay Half Marathon challenge is about giving something back.
“I know that I am in a better place because of Rowcroft and the support they gave me. I also know that hospice care costs money to deliver, so anything that I can do to help give back, I will gladly do.”
Keeping focused
When the training gets tough, Josh focuses on three things:
“Firstly, I know that what I am doing does not come anywhere near what my mum had to go through. She was so incredible in the fight she showed to stay strong for me and my brothers to the end, so I think going for a run is relatively a small ask. Secondly it is for my brothers – being able to do this all together and sharing memories of Mum together along the way is really special. And finally, it is for the staff at Rowcroft. Even eight years later, the impact they had on my family sits at the heart of so much of what I do.”
Inspiring others
Josh hopes others will be inspired to support Rowcroft too.
“If you’re considering running for Rowcroft, I would say ‘just do it’ – simple as that. It would mean a lot to know others are running alongside me, supporting the hospice that cared for my family when we needed it most. If you’re interested, just email Molly at [email protected]. Or take a look at Rowcroft’s other challenges on their website here.
“As a community it is our responsibility to ensure that Rowcroft can keep offering their life- changing support into the future.”