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‘I know that Rose will be with me through every mile’

Guernsey girl Victoria Symes will be running the TCS London Marathon in memory of her friend Rose Haysom who died earlier this year.

Victoria Symes, pictured at the Guernsey Race for Life, will be running in memory of her friend Rose Haysom who died earlier this year.
Victoria Symes, pictured at the Guernsey Race for Life, will be running in memory of her friend Rose Haysom who died earlier this year. / Supplied

Miss Symes, who has recently moved to London from the island, will be running the iconic 26.2-mile -long course tomorrow for charity Young Lives vs Cancer.

‘I have always had a passion for running, so when I tragically lost my best friend, Rose, to cancer earlier this year, I thought that this was the best opportunity to make her proud and to also provide support for those who have close ones who are affected by this dreadful illness,’ said Miss Symes.

‘It means so much to me to be able to run in the London Marathon, as I have only just moved here and I am loving life already, despite the year I’ve just had. I know that Rose will be with me through every mile and I just want to make her proud,’ said Miss Symes.

Every day more than 12 children and young people across the UK hear the news that they have cancer. From the moment of diagnosis, specialist social workers from Young Lives vs Cancer are available to provide psychosocial support to children and young people with cancer and their families throughout treatment. The charity also provides accommodation close to hospitals, where families can stay together during treatment for free.

‘We cannot thank Victoria enough for her amazing efforts, taking on the challenge of a lifetime for Young Lives vs Cancer,’ said Liz Blunt, senior fundraising and engagement manager at Young Lives vs Cancer.

‘For every blister Victoria has encountered and all the running and training, we are in awe of her dedication and determination.

‘From the moment of diagnosis, our specialist social workers provide day-to-day support for each child, young person and family, from guidance to financial support. Our charity relies on donations to fund our vital work, and so we’d love to see the community get behind a final push for Victoria’s fundraising. We cannot wait to cheer on Victoria and Team Young Lives all the way to the finish line.’

Miss Symes can be sponsored here.

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