Running for CHSW in memory of Daisy
March 16th, 2026In April, local mum, Emily Marsden will run the London Marathon for Children’s Hospice South West (CHSW), carrying the memory of her daughter, Daisy, with her every step of the way.
Emily’s daughter, Daisy, died in April 2024 at the age of 9. Daisy lived with Rett Syndrome, a rare neurological condition that caused severe disabilities, including loss of speech and hand control, recurrent chest infections and difficult to treat epilepsy. Despite her declining health and repeated infections, Daisy was known for her peaceful, loving nature and deep joy in music.
Introduced to palliative care at the age of 7, Daisy continued to fight and share precious years at home. After an unexpected deterioration, she was transferred to Charlton Farm, one of CHSW’s local hospices, where she died peacefully, surrounded by love and compassionate care.
“Daisy died at Charlton Farm in 2024,” Emily says. “The care Daisy and our family received when she died, and following her death, was exceptional and made the pain of losing her that little bit more bearable. I am a firm believer that everyone should have access to good quality end of life care when that time comes. CHSW are a shining example of how to provide the highest level of care at the most difficult of times.”
Following Daisy’s death, Emily faced an overwhelming sense of loss and emptiness after years devoted to Daisy’s care. Meeting another bereaved mum through Charlton Farm, who ran the London Marathon in memory of her own daughter, planted a seed. Emily realised that a challenge like the marathon could offer focus, purpose and a way to move forward while still honouring Daisy. Training now fits around a busy life. Emily is juggling a new job, 2 young children and grief that still comes in waves.
Running for CHSW was an easy decision for Emily. “I am eternally grateful to CHSW for how wonderfully they cared for Daisy and our family,” Emily says. “Children’s hospices like Charlton Farm are special places and I am incredibly proud to be running for them.”
If you would like to support Emily, please visit her Just Giving page at:
https://2026tcslondonmarathon.enthuse.com/pf/emily-marsden
