As a bereaved parent, our son Thomas was—and always will be—on our minds daily.
Signing up for the Cardiff Half Marathon in support of Tŷ Hafan is my way of honouring his memory, his legacy, and giving back to the place that gave us so much when we needed it most.
Tŷ Hafan isn’t just a hospice—it was a lifeline to us. In the toughest moments, they offered us compassion, dignity, and a space where we could be understood, because going from a fit and well child to a terminally ill one is something few people have to navigate.
We were surrounded by compassion, love, and they couldn’t be more supportive throughout Thomas’ 18-month journey as his illness progressed. Between respite and crisis stays, it became our safe haven away from hospital and community care. Their care extended beyond medical support; it embraced our whole family, helping us create invaluable memories.
Running in this event is very personal. Not only is exercise a fantastic outlet for grief and good for mental health, but every step I take, whether in the Cardiff Half Marathon or any run, is for Thomas, and for the families who are still walking through the unimaginable.
It’s a way to turn the sometimes-overwhelming grief into purpose, and a couple of hours of pain and blisters is nothing compared to the challenges that Tŷ Hafan families’ face daily.
By fundraising for Tŷ Hafan, I know that it will help ensure that children like Thomas, and families like mine, continue to receive the same care, kindness, and support that we did.
To register your interest to run for Tŷ Hafan in the 2026 Cardiff Half Marathon go to: Cardiff Half Marathon – Ty Hafan