Four years ago our family was irrevocably broken when we suddenly lost my wonderful cousin, Jordan, when he was just 22 years old. No family should ever have to experience this terrible tragedy, a young life cut far too short. I wanted to do something to help prevent other families from suffering the way my family is, particularly Jordan’s mum and dad, and two younger sisters. That’s when I decided to enter the Great East Run. The farthest I had ever run before entering was 10k and my running was sporadic to say the least, so it seemed like a good challenge.
On the day I made it round relatively unscathed, despite it being unexpectedly warmer than I had thought it would be! I was helped massively by fabulous support from my family and everyone else lining the route.
Originally, I set myself the fundraising target of £500 but my family and friends were fantastic and to date I have raised just over double my target – £1,024, with gift aid on top of that! I’m so pleased to have helped raise money for such a worthy charity, so close to my heart.
Jordan, you are loved and missed so much every day.
Gemma Thomas
