Sisters take on London Landmarks Half Marathon to raise funds for Zoe’s Place
Devoted mother Rachel and her sister Laura are taking on the London Landmarks Half Marathon to raise vital funds and awareness for Zoe’s Place Baby Hospice in Middlesbrough, in support of Rachel’s daughter Annabelle, who has faced huge medical challenges throughout her young life.
Annabelle, diagnosed with Moya Moya, a rare condition affecting blood flow to the brain, has defied the odds by surviving multiple strokes in her early years. Now approaching her seventh birthday, Annabelle’s story is one of strength, resilience, and hope. It’s this spirit that has motivated Rachel to run the half marathon.
Annabelle’s journey has been anything but easy. From suffering eight strokes within her first year to living with the complex medical condition of Moya Moya, every day for Annabelle and her family is a battle. Despite these challenges, Annabelle remains a fighter.
Rachel describes her daughter as “beautiful, funny, cheeky, sassy, strong, and inspirational,” and Annabelle’s determination continues to amaze those around her.
Rachel said: “From a young age, I always knew I wanted to be a mummy. When you think about starting a family, you never imagine how things might look if it doesn’t go to plan.
“I’ve always had a positive outlook on life, but having Annabelle made me more fearless and determined. On the day Annabelle was born, my dad passed away from MND, and I believe it was so she could take on his strength and courage to face all the challenges ahead.”
Having both her father with a debilitating illness and Annabelle with her own complex needs, Rachel now lives by a “life’s too short” mentality. This outlook has given her the extra zest to push herself outside of her comfort zone—it is why she started running.
Together with Laura, Rachel is determined to wear her Zoe’s Place vest with pride and raise awareness for the charity that has supported their family during the toughest times. Rachel is proud to run the at event not just for herself, but for Annabelle and all the families who rely on Zoe’s Place for care and support. Every mile Rachel runs will be a tribute to the strength of her daughter and the incredible impact Zoe’s Place has had on their lives.
Zoe’s Place has played a vital role in Rachel’s journey as a mother. The hospice offers respite care for children with complex health needs, giving Rachel a much-needed break while ensuring Annabelle is in safe hands. The peace of mind that Zoe’s Place provides has been invaluable, allowing Rachel to step away for a moment and focus on her own well-being.
Rachel added: “One of the only times I can switch off is when Annabelle is at Zoe’s Place. The need for parents and carers to rest and recoup is so important, and it took me a long time to realize that I should not feel guilty for allowing myself time without her, knowing she’s having the best time.
“No one ever wants to need the service of a hospice, especially for their child. But when you do, it is a lifeline. When Annabelle was referred to Zoe’s Place, I didn’t realize just how desperate I was to be around other families who understand what you’re going through. Caring for a child with complex health needs can be isolating, but to know that Zoe’s is just a call away has been a blessing.”
Every single penny counts for a charity like Zoe’s Place, and Rachel feels privileged to be part of the Zoe’s Place family and team.
Support Rachel and Laura to raise money here: https://www.justgiving.com/page/thebeerstakethelandmarkshalf?utm_medium=FR&utm_source=CL
