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From Couch to Half Marathon: Gemma Runs with Love for Hayley and Sienna

Here in Manilva, we’re lucky to have neighbours who constantly inspire us. This time, it’s our very own Gemma Fildes, who’s swapping her comfy trainers for running shoes and taking on her first ever half marathon in Marbella – all in the name of love, friendship and community.

From “I Hate Running” to Half Marathon Hero

Three years ago, Gemma downloaded Couch to 5K to support her best friend before her wedding. She admits she could barely manage 1K without wanting to give up. (We’ve all been there, Gemma!) But run by run, step by step, something changed.

Fast forward to today, and she’s signed up for the biggest challenge of her life – the Marbella Half Marathon on Sunday 28th September. But she isn’t just running to prove how far she’s come – she’s running for a cause that touches all our hearts.

Images © Gemma Fildes / Sienna Elizabeth Rose Legacy

Running for Sienna’s Legacy

Earlier this year, Gemma’s dear friend Hayley Wilkins gave birth to her beautiful daughter, Sienna, who was sadly born sleeping. At the same time, Hayley herself was in a coma, unable to meet her little girl until four days later.

The hospital did not have a cuddle cot – a special cooling cot that gives bereaved families precious time with their babies. Time to bond, to say goodbye, and to create lasting memories.

Now, Hayley is determined to turn her grief into something powerful: raising funds to provide cuddle cots to hospitals across Spain, so that no other family has to face the same heartbreak of lost time.

How You Can Help

Gemma is dedicating every kilometre of her half marathon to Sienna’s legacy – and she needs our support. Here’s how you can get involved:

Donate to Gemma’s fundraiser: Running with Purpose, Running with Love
Share Sienna’s story far and wide
Follow along on Facebook at Sienna Elizabeth Rose Legacy

Every euro raised will help provide cuddle cots to hospitals in Spain, giving families the most precious gift of all: time.

Go Gemma!

Gemma, from “I hate running” to half marathon hero, you’re showing us what true friendship and community spirit look like. Hayley, our whole town is behind you as you carry forward Sienna’s legacy with courage and love.

On race day, we’ll be cheering Gemma every step of the way – because this run isn’t just about finishing 21km. It’s about love, resilience, and giving others the gift of time.