Running in memory of my best friend

“I met Harriet in 2010 on the first day of secondary school and we instantly clicked. She was bubbly, funny and had the most infectious laugh. We’d hang out after school and listen to One Direction on repeat.”

Phoebe, 23 from Devon, ran the London Marathon in aid of the Trust on Sunday, in memory of her friend Harriet. Having never run the London Marathon before, Phoebe wanted to take on the challenge to raise awareness of cystic fibrosis, but also vital funds for life-changing research into new treatments.

“One day Harriet came round my house for a sleepover and her dad spoke to my mum and told us that Harriet had CF and all the medication she’d need to take and do if she was to stay over. I had never even heard of CF and I don’t think at that point I still realised how poorly she was.”

Throughout their friendship, the two girls would do all the things teenagers love to do; sleepovers, go to concerts and even get told off at school for laughing too much. In 2013, Harriet became very unwell and had to spend time in ICU. It wasn’t until Phoebe visited her during this time, that she really understood what it meant to have CF.

“I couldn’t quite comprehend how we were both only 14 and that I stood by her side healthy, as she was fighting for her life.”

Sadly at the age of 15, Harriet passed away.

“Not a day goes past where I don’t think of her or wonder what life would be like if my best friend was still here. Harriet was the bravest, most courageous, and inspirational person I have ever met and will ever meet.”

Ahead of race day, Phoebe said: “To be running it in her memory is an honour and I will be channelling her strength to get me through. In the seven years since Harriet has passed, the research into treatment has continued to grow and to be able to help contribute to it with my fundraising makes the pain of losing Harriet that little bit easier.”

At the time of writing, Phoebe has already smashed her London Marathon fundraising target and raised over £3,600 for the Trust. 

Thank you so much to Phoebe and all of our amazing Team CF runners!

If watching the London Marathon coverage on Sunday has left you feeling inspired, the marathon ballot for April 2023 is now open! Enter before Friday 7 October and join #TeamCF! If you miss out in the ballot, you can also apply for a charity place here.

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic condition which causes sticky mucus to build up in the lungs and digestive system. It affects more than 10,900 people in the UK. One in 25 of us carries the faulty gene that causes it, usually without knowing.

Your donations help us fund vital research. Donate today to help everyone with CF live a life unlimited. 

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