“I’m Claire and last year was the worst year of my family’s life. We experienced something we weren’t expecting for years.
Our lovely, kind, selfless, life loving, supportive, rock of the family was taken from us in the blink of an eye. Early last year, mum had a rapid heart rate which was being monitored. Over a few weeks, mum deteriorated quickly, struggling to breathe and we took her to hospital. A few checks were complete, and we were told she had anaemia which mum was treated for there and then. A few hours later at home, with dad by her side, mum passed away. We were, are and always will be in disbelief and heart broken. It was found mum died of a Pulmonary Embolism and DVT. What?! Mum was fit for her age and always on her feet.
We see on TV and hear radio ads about heartattacks, cancer, strokes and rightly so. However, we don’t hear about what to look for, signs and symptoms of DVT or Pulmonary Embolisms. Maybe if we did, I’d have been able to play a part in saving mums life.
I decided during the early days of grief to challenge myself and give mum a laugh with the best seat in the house. I signed up for the London Marathon My Way. 26.2 miles! This didn’t have to be run for charity but it was an easy decision for me to approach Thrombosis UK, a very small charity who deserve some funding.
Last year I lost my lovely mum, last year I chose to raise awareness. This year, I’m running the London Marathon my way. I’ve raised in excess of £1200 and couldn’t be more happy I’ve been able to help.”
