Gemma Edgar died, aged 33, at St Helena Hospice on 19th December 2018, four years after the diagnosis of a glioblastoma brain tumour. While Gemma was receiving care at the Hospice, her friends Cara Greenley and Jen Kaye organised the initial 5k Run for Gem event with the support of the Running Colchester community, and it took place 10 days before she died.

Gemma became a keen runner after her diagnosis in order to keep healthy and manage her wellbeing. In 2018 she took on the London Marathon, two half marathons and her 50th ParkRun, all while undergoing chemotherapy.

The brain tumour diagnosis came without warning a few weeks after the birth of her second son. Five years after her death, her dad, Andy Relf, said:

“Despite her terminal prognosis, Gemma always remained positive and upbeat, and was a fantastic mum to our two grandsons. 

“Looking back to Gemma’s last few months of life is a very difficult and painful experience for the family, but the love and care that Gemma and the whole family received from St Helena Hospice during this time will never be forgotten.” 

The run in Castle Park has been growing each year with friends, family and strangers of all abilities taking part. Event organiser Cara Greenley said: 

“Being the 5th anniversary, this year’s Run for Gem seems to be more poignant than ever.

“It’s such an important event that brings so many together to celebrate Gemma’s life and also raises awareness about brain tumours. 

“To date, Run for Gem has brought hundreds of people together and raised over £10,000 for both St Helena Hospice and Brain Tumour Research. I know Gemma would find this incredible and be so grateful to everyone who is carrying on her love for running and continuing to help both charities. 

“Being able to arrange such an event makes me continuously very proud, and without the support from Gemma’s family, friends and associates this event wouldn't be the success it is. I cannot thank everyone enough."

Run for Gem is open to all and participants can run, jog or walk the 5k route around Castle Park, with organisers asking for a £5 donation split between St Helena Hospice and Brain Tumour Research. Cakes will be available afterwards for a small donation to the charities. Sunflower themed clothes or accessories are encouraged, along with taking fun selfies to celebrate Gemma’s life. Participants can visit Gemma’s memory bench on the parkrun route. 

Run for Gem starts after ParkRun on Saturday 2nd December at 10:30, with participants gathering at the bandstand in Castle Park from 09:45. 

For more information visit the event Facebook page https://bit.ly/479Huvn