Lilley’s story

Hi, I’m Lilley, 

By the age of 23 I had lost both my parents. I lost my Mum when I was 5 years old to breast cancer and then my Dad unexpectedly passed away in November 2024. I will be running the St Albans Half Marathon in June 2026 for It’s Time. I came across this charity after losing my Dad and wished I had come across them sooner as the community that has been (and is continuing to be) built is inspirational.  

I experienced grief at such a young age that as I was growing up, my understanding of what happened to my Mum developed and the grief developed. Each milestone I reached was a reminder that she wasn’t there to see it, and would never be. But I had my Dad. We were super close because of what happened to us and then when he died, I couldn't understand how this happened - I still don’t and don’t think I ever will. I felt that I had already learned one of the toughest lessons life can teach you and I didn’t need to learn it again. I used to believe in the saying ‘everything happens for a reason’ as a way to justify losing my mum at a young age and how it made me who I am, but then losing my dad as well, there was no way to justify this. 

Running has enabled me to channel the multitude of emotions and thoughts I’m experiencing from grief. Focusing on ‘okay just run to that tree and then you can walk’ instead of the usual overwhelming, all-consuming thoughts of ‘I’m never going to see my parents again’, which is no exaggeration, the grief is constant. It’s a chance for my brain to be in the moment and focus on what is happening right now (the shin splints are real) which prompted me to sign up for a half marathon. I also wanted to share my story to continue raising awareness of young people losing their parents. I am lucky that I have a stepmother and stepsister who entered my life when I was young, so they don’t really feel like ‘step’, to support me and be there for all the milestones that my parents can’t be. 

Since finding Its Time, I have met incredible people at the Walk ‘N’ Talks, been inspired through reading the real stories and motivated to raise money and run for them! I have also joined the volunteer team to support on LinkedIn and Partnerships. This Charity is one of a kind and if you are able to donate it would be immensely appreciated. All donations go directly to the charity and contribute to supporting young people.