A primary-time marathon runner has raised practically £7,000 in reminiscence of her stepmother.
Tara Kemp, 26, from South Oxfordshire, is making ready to tackle the London Marathon this April, in assist of Sue Ryder.
She is operating in reminiscence of her stepmother Di, a former piano trainer and a workers member on the Oratory Prep School, who died on Boxing Day 2023 on the age of 47.
Ms Kemp stated: “Di enjoyed running, she ran the Oxford Half Marathon, and I had always wanted to race with her.
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“Taking on the London Marathon felt just like the significant ‘go huge or go dwelling’ selection.
“I know Di would be so proud of me, although she probably wouldn’t quite believe I am actually doing this.
“Di was full of heat, laughter and made life really feel brighter.”
Di was first diagnosed with bowel cancer in 2019 while Ms Kemp was at university.
When her health deteriorated, the family chose to care for her at home with support from Sue Ryder’s Palliative Care Hub in South Oxfordshire.
Ms Kemp said: “Sue Ryder nurses visited twice a day and supported with the care, permitting us to give attention to moments of happiness collectively.
“They showed her such compassion and would take time to talk to her, giving her a much-needed space to express how she was feeling as she struggled with losing her independence.”
Without their assist, Ms Kemp stated the household couldn’t have stored Di at dwelling as she wished.
She stated: “This marathon is my way of showing gratitude and helping to ensure they can continue supporting families facing similar challenges.”
Despite current leg surgical procedure, her coaching is progressing nicely.
Ms Kemp added: “I’m working in London currently, so I have been able to run around Hyde Park, along the river to Battersea and I can feel my pace improving too.
“I’m beginning to get a bit scared about race day, however not due to the bodily aspect of issues, more the feelings.
“I think the reason why I am doing this is going to hit me hard, especially when I see my dad and brother along the route.”
She has raised practically £7,000 of her £7,500 goal, making her the highest fundraiser for Sue Ryder within the area thus far.
A good portion of the funds got here from a fundraising occasion she organised, which included a reside band, a crew of pals operating the bar and her father serving chips.
Supporters can contribute to her marketing campaign at Tara Kemp is fundraising for Sue Ryder.
