Taking on the London Marathon means so much to so many – and for Cristabelle Owens, it will be a particularly moving day as it will be in memory of her beloved mum.
Cristabelle’s mum tragically passed away in a caravan fire in 2021 and, if it wasn’t for the quick response of local Essex fire crews, she may have also lost her sister too.
She’s now taking on the running event in aid of us, as a way of giving back to the firefighters who were there that day – and their colleagues across the UK.
“My sister was in the caravan at the time of the fire too, but fortunately got out alive,” Cristabelle says.
“Honestly it was terrible. I was nearby at the time, but staying with a friend, so I didn’t know about it until the fire crews were already there.
“The fire brigade came so quickly – almost instantly – and did everything possible to try and help my beautiful mum. Unfortunately, she passed away. They were able to save my sister, however, she’s lucky to be here today.
“They told us after that if my sister hadn’t got out when they did, we’d have lost her too. They still don’t know exactly how it happened – just that it was accidental.”
Cristabelle previously ran the London Marathon in aid of the London Air Ambulance Service, who also responded on the day, and now wants to raise what she can for us too.
“It means so much to me to support this charity, as a thank you to the Clacton fire crews,” says Cristabelle.
“What they see every day is horrific, so they need support too.
“I know how much the fire service helps in the UK and it truly inspires me how hard they all work in upsetting situations. It’s truly an honour to give back to a charity that helps those who did all they could to help my mum.
“My mum would be so proud of me – I just want to give back in some way, in her memory.”
To donate to Cristabelle’s fundraiser, click here.
