I have never hidden the fact that I have a little boy in heaven, my angel Rio. A blessing who grew his wings far too early, after a haemorrhage at just 3 days old. Knowing It was time to say goodbye, Rio fell asleep in my arms on 23rd September 2011. Truth be told, my world fell apart, I was heartbroken and can honestly say I was lost. 

I have always stated that no support was available to me through this horrific time.. and if it wasn't for Skylar, my eldest son, being beside me, I don't think I would be in the same position that I am now. I found strength, threw myself into funeral arrangements, education and kept Rio's memory alive, to those close to me. 

However, it's a very long road, and although time is a great healer, the loss of a child never heals.

Earlier last year, 3 years after Rio grew his wings I was made aware of this charity 'A Child Of Mine' working to offer support to bereaved parents, after the loss of a child, regardless of age.This organisation would have been my saviour, at the time of Rio's passing, in comparison to being handed a leaflet on grief from my doctor. No support existed but a helpline.

I experienced emotions I never thought existed and to of had support or to know support was available,  would have relieved some of the pain I was forced to feel.

I now follow the work that is involved with the charity and it's a fantastic support network for parents grieving,for the loss of a child. Weekly gatherings with fellow parents and local events are just some of the work involved - and founded by a angel mother herself.

Although the pain never goes away after losing a child, just knowing that other people out there do understand, and a community exists, sharing something not many people can relate to.

So I am going to complete the Stafford 10k run, along with two of my closest friends, in order to raise as much awareness of ACOM, this fantastic charity. Our aim is to raise as much funds for the charity as we can, in order to show appreciation for the work that is committed by them. 

None of us are strong runners, in fact we will be ecstatic to even fnish the race lol! So any small donations towards our target would be much appreciated by all of us.

And of corse, we are running in memory of my little angel Rio, who would be turning 5 years old a few days before our run! 

..no doubt he will be right beside us!

Thank you!

And wish us luck!!