A DEDICATED Malvern mum is gearing up for one of the world’s most gruelling races in memory of her best friend’s daughter.
Dominique Edwards will be tackling the London Marathon on Sunday (April 26) to raise funds for Acorns Children’s Hospice – the charity which provided vital support and care for Effie Pitt-Hughes.
Effie, daughter of Dominique’s best friend Ali Pitt-Hughes, was diagnosed with Edward’s Syndrome, which is a rare genetic condition, in 2010 and passed away aged just four months.
Acorns was on hand to provide specialist medical care for Effie and support for Ali and her family.
Dominique, who is a teacher at Pershore High School, said: “This is a charity close to my heart.
“Ali lost her beautiful daughter Effie and I will be running the London Marathon in her memory, just a week after what would have been her fifth birthday.
“I have done various runs before, but doing the London Marathon has always been on my list. It will be a tough race, but the fact I am doing it for such a good cause will spur me on.”
The 32-year-old and Ali, who is an English teacher in Gloucestershire, met while studying A-levels at the formerly known Worcester College of Technology 14 years ago and Ali said her best friend has always been ‘selfless’ and praised the charity for their help.
“I don’t know how I would have got through my situation without the care and support of Acorns,” the 39-year-old added.
“They were a lifeline when we needed them most, providing everything we needed to cope, from emotional support, to every day practical advice.
“I knew I could speak my mind and admit my inner-most emotions and feel safe doing so.
“Acorns are a miraculous organisation that really made me feel part of their family. Without my mum, Acorns and Dominique, I don’t know where I would be.”
Visit www.justgiving.com/Dominique-Edwards2 to sponsor Dominique’s run.
