Inspiring Coram women from past to present: Fifi’s story

Inspiring women supporting Coram now and in the past. We asked some of the amazing women who have been supporting Coram through various challenges to tell us their stories, to celebrate Women’s History Month. This is Fifi’s Coram Story.

I remember in winter 2019 the company I worked for at the time hung up a poster ‘Run a half marathon for Coram on 31 March 2020.’ I saw that and I didn’t think twice. I must admit, at the time I did not know what Coram did as a charity. I went on google and searched Coram Charity and it was then that I realised, this is perfect. A charity that supports children and young people. The date was ideal. The 31st of March is an extremely special and personal date for me. My life changed in many ways on that date.

Why Coram is so special for me? Well, I have been raised by the most wonderful woman. She taught me how to help people and how to always do better. My mum has always helped children in her local community. She had this special gift in bringing the best out of young people. She fostered 3 wonderful girls and she was teaching disabled children in their own homes. Helping was always so effortless for her and it was part of who she was. If you want to be an angel, you have got to do it when you are alive. Those words describe my mother in the most wonderful way.

The 31st of March is the date of my mum’s death, so it seemed even more perfect to run in her tribute and raise money on her behalf. I wanted to continue what she was doing on earth. She is the person that inspires me every day and seeing how much she helped people makes me want to live every day with the same values.

At the time of applying for that first ever half marathon I was 22 and I felt as though I had not helped people enough. I wanted to change that as soon as possible so I signed up.

It seems like a long time since 2019 and yet again in 2022, I am going to be running the half marathon for Coram. I am now working my dream job that reminds me every day that there are so many children that need help. I joined the Metropolitan Police Service in 2021 as a Police Constable and it is the best job I have ever had.

I come across so many young people every day that have not been so fortunate in life and they need help. I believe that as a police officer I have put smiles on children’s faces. I have helped children get to a place of safety, away from danger. I have spoken to young teenagers from all backgrounds and walks of life, providing support and advice to those who need it. Even when they make a mistake, I never comment or judge, I try to understand. A core value of the MPS is Respect, and as a young female in the job, I do strive to respect all members of the public who I come into contact with. Everyone’s life circumstances are different, and it is important to understand; everyone has their own struggles in life. I’m always up for a conversation and I’m trying to find solutions for those who seek it.

I was chatting to one of the Coram Charity employees the other day and I realised I might come across children that use Coram’s help every day. I have never asked them if they did. However, I’m so glad that we have a wonderful charity like Coram. I will continue my support for them for as long as I can, because being a child/teenager is now harder than ever.

I am delighted that in the month of March we celebrate our inspirational women. I must say I know many of them, starting with my mother – Alexandra, my aunt who has become my mother – Marta, my wonderful friends Lara and Hannah and many more. I would not be where I am now without you. Thank you for inspiring me every day.