Words by Harrison Read
Lorna Milliken, is our latest Everyday Hero - joining an impressive list of activists, volunteers and individuals making a difference to their communities.
You may know her as the Managing Director of Smiley Movement and the Smiley Charity Film Awards, but now she’s on a mission inspired by a personal journey. After her brother, Douglas, passed away from cancer earlier this year, she wanted to lace up her trainers in support of him - that’s why she made the decision to run the London Landmarks Half Marathon.
Lorna isn’t typically a marathon fan - in fact, running isn’t exactly her thing, but she hasn't let that stop her. Instead, she's turning her personal challenge into something bigger. Because when life throws curveballs like cancer, it's about finding strength in the struggle and turning it into something positive.
Lorna's marathon journey isn't just about pounding the pavement; it's about setting an example. She is using her loss as an opportunity to raise funds for an incredible charity who has done so much for her brother, her family, and families around the world - Macmillan Cancer Support.
In a world where bad news seems to dominate the headlines, Lorna is flipping the script and showing that even in tough times, there's room for hope and action.
In January of this year, Douglas sadly lost his battle with cancer, leaving a profound impact on Lorna and her family. At the The London Landmarks Half Marathon, Lorna isn’t just running in support of Macmillan Cancer Support—she's running in his memory.
Carrying on with her training is an example that matter how tough things get, there's always a way to make a difference. And in a generation that's all about making an impact, her message is more important than ever.
Donate to Lorna’s Half Marathon attempt in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support here
Charity check-in
At Smiley Movement, we like to elevate the work of charities across the world. Here are three charities whose causes align with the themes in this article.
Macmillan Cancer Support. They provide specialist health care, information and financial support to people affected by cancer. Learn more here.
Cancer Research UK. This charity provides information for anyone affected by any kind of cancer. Support them here.
Maggie’s. Offers free practical, emotional and social support to people with cancer and the people important to them. Find out more here.
This article aligns with the UN SDG Good Health and Wellbeing.
