On October 4th, Louise and her husband Stuart took on the Cardiff Half Marathon, raising money for Hospice of the Valleys in loving memory of her beautiful mam Jan.

This year marked 10 years since Louise lost her mam to cancer. Ten years is a long time, but when you lose someone so special, it never really feels that long ago. There are still moments when it feels like yesterday, and so many times when she wishes her mam was still here to share life's special moments.

For much of the last 10 years, Louise has returned to the Cardiff Half Marathon to raise money for and support Hospice of the Valleys. This year's event was her 8th Cardiff Half Marathon in her mam's memory.

Every year, those 13.1 miles have been about so much more than running. They've been a way of remembering her mam, keeping her close and turning something incredibly painful into something positive.

And the reason Louise has continued to support Hospice of the Valleys is deeply personal.

During her mam's illness, the Hospice provided invaluable care, kindness, compassion and support to both her and the family at a time when they needed it most. The difference that support made will never be forgotten.

Louise's continued fundraising is her way of saying thank you and giving something back to the incredible people who were there for her family during one of the hardest times of their lives. ❤️

Over the past year, Louise has also seen friends experience the heartbreak of losing their own parents to cancer, some far too soon. She knows only too well the pain of that loss, the emptiness it leaves and all those moments you wish you could share with them.

And so, on October 4th, Louise once again pulled on her trainers and took on those 13.1 miles, carrying all those memories and the people she holds dear with her every step of the way.

She ran for her mam. She ran for the families who have experienced the heartbreak of losing someone they love. And she ran for Hospice of the Valleys, so they can continue providing the incredible care and support that makes such a difference when families need it most.

❤️ 10 years without her mam.
❤️ 8 Cardiff Half Marathons in her memory.
❤️ A decade of supporting Hospice of the Valleys.

For her mam. For the Hospice that cared for her family. And for all the families who need that same love, care and support.

Some people leave footprints on our hearts. Louise has carried her mam with her for every single mile. ❤️

Inspired by Louise's story and her incredible dedication?

If you'd like to get involved and take part in the Cardiff Half Marathon 2027, we'd love you to join Team Hospice of the Valleys!

Whether you're an experienced runner or taking on your very first half marathon, you can help us make a real difference to local families by raising vital funds for our Hospice.

To find out more and register your interest

Come and be part of something special. Every mile, every step and every penny raised helps us continue providing care, comfort and support when it's needed most. ❤️