This April, five incredible individuals – Jack, Laura, Natasha, Emma and Mindy – will be taking on the iconic London Marathon in support of The Laura Centre.

A mixture of first-time runners and seasoned veterans, each one has their own powerful reason for lacing up their trainers and taking on 26.2 miles. But they all share one thing in common – a deep commitment to supporting bereaved families through the work we do.

Jack has always been drawn to a challenge, and after trading his rugby boots for triathlon training, he decided it was time to tackle his biggest test yet — the London Marathon.

Although running hasn’t always been his favourite sport, Jack is determined to push his limits in honour of his dad, who he lost to suicide. At a time when his family was struggling to stay afloat, The Laura Centre became a vital support system for Jack, his brothers and his mum. From counselling to compassionate guidance, we were there. And now Jack is giving back, one mile at a time.

For him, endurance sport has become more than a hobby, it’s a way to process life’s hardest moments and find some peace. We’ll be cheering him on as he takes in the roar of the London crowds, blisters and all.

As of 22nd April, Jack has raised £1,620 for The Laura Centre. To donate to his fundraiser, click here.

For Laura, the marathon brings together two things she cares deeply about – running and helping others. While she hasn’t personally used The Laura Centre’s services, she’s seen the impact of grief in the lives of people she loves, and recognises the vital role support plays during those dark times.

As a working mum, Laura finds clarity and calm in the simple act of getting outside for a run, and she’s ready to soak in every moment of marathon day, especially the power of the crowds and the strangers who’ll be shouting her name along the way. Her efforts will help ensure we can continue being there for families when they need us most.

As of 22nd April, Laura has raised £1,130 for The Laura Centre. To donate to her fundraiser, click here.

(L-R Emma, Jack, Laura, Natasha)

Natasha was just nine years old when she lost her dad, and The Laura Centre was there to help her and her family through the unthinkable. That support, given with compassion and understanding, made a lasting impact, and now Natasha is paying it forward.

Running gives her space to breathe, focus and reset, and every step of her marathon training has filled her with a growing sense of pride. She’s most looking forward to race day itself – the buzz, the crowds and the sense of shared achievement that only the London Marathon can bring.

Natasha is running with strength, heart and a powerful reason to keep moving.

As of 22nd April, Natasha has raised £1,932 for The Laura Centre. To donate to her fundraiser, click here.

This isn’t Emma’s first marathon, but it’s perhaps her most meaningful. After experiencing a sudden loss, she chose to support The Laura Centre, a charity that has provided essential support to her friends and colleagues during unimaginable grief.

Emma’s connection to running runs deep, from parkruns with friends to peaceful solo miles. It’s more than just a hobby – it’s a source of calm and joy.

She’s proud to be running for us on what will be a huge day for both her and the thousands of people lining the streets of London. Wearing her Laura Centre vest, she’ll be flying the flag for every family we support.

As of 22nd April, Laura has raised £1,639 for The Laura Centre. To donate to her fundraiser, click here.

Mindy’s story is a powerful reminder of why The Laura Centre exists. In 2020, she faced the unimaginable – the loss of her son. Though she hasn’t yet used our services herself, she knows the importance of what we offer.

For her, running has become a way to manage the overwhelming grief that never truly goes away. In her words, she’s trying to run away from herself, even if she knows she can’t. But in choosing to run the marathon for The Laura Centre, she’s turning her pain into purpose.

Mindy’s bravery, honesty and dedication inspire us deeply, and we are honoured to be part of her journey.

As of 22nd April, Mindy has raised £2,150 for The Laura Centre. To donate to her fundraiser, click here.

To Jack, Laura, Natasha, Emma and Mindy, thank you. Your determination, strength and generosity mean so much to us and to every family who turns to The Laura Centre during their darkest days.

We’ll be cheering for each of you at every step. Good luck, and thank you from all of us!