I've always wanted to run a marathon but found too many excuses not to - "I'm too busy, I don't have time, I'm not fit enough, it's too hot/cold/rainy/icey/snowy".....Well all those reasons are still true (except for the "it's too hot" part) but I have finally found a reason why I should run a marathon.  Let me explain....

Last October, Matt and I ran for The Shooting Star Children's Hospice and, with the support of many of you, we raised over £1,700.  Meeting the amazing people who work tirelessly for Shooting Star, and more recently some of the families who have relied upon Shooting Star to get them through what I can only imagine is the most unbearable grief of losing a child, has honestly changed me forever.  The courage of these people is truly inspirational.  To train for and run a marathon now seems like a pretty small sacrifice to make, if it means that I can help raise more money for this incredibly deserving charity. 

So...I am running the London Marathon on 25 April.  My training is going pretty well and I have now conquered 22 miles (35 kms) - twice - but am now enjoying the taper!  My goals are to finish (without walking) in under 4 hours, to enjoy the run and most importantly, to raise as much money as I can. Which brings me to Shooting Star...

Shooting Star offers a range of care services for children and young people with life-limiting conditions and their families. Shooting Star aims to help families live life to the full by providing opportunities for fun and laughter, as well as helping them through the tougher times. Their motto captures it all: 'Enhancing quality of life, when every moment counts'.

Shooting Star does not receive any long-term statutory funding and as a result, the hospice relies on voluntary donations to raise the money it needs. I am aiming to raise over £2,000 and so I respectfully ask for your support to help me achieve this goal. It doesn't have to be a lot of money to make a difference - £2 could pay for a child's oxygen mask, £30 could pay for a session in the spa pool.  Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor me: Shooting Star Children's Hospice receives your money faster and, if you’re a taxpayer, Justgiving makes sure 25% in Gift Aid, plus a 3% supplement, are added to your donation.  In addition, the Macquarie Foundation will generously match dollar-for-dollar any donation you make.

Every little bit helps so please think of the children, dig deep and do something that will greatly enhance the lives of those that have precious few moments of joy.

Thanks for your support!

Bronwyn