This is it, my first ever marathon and now I have a greater reason to succeed. My friend Crystal was diagnosed with acute lymphoma back in February. This is a ghastly disease and I want to do my little bit to help so I am running the Dublin Marathon on the 31st October 2011.

This is my first marathon and I have been pushed to the limits both emotionally and physically over the past 4 months. I have now done my longest run, 21 miles, and with less than 10 days to go I'm now on the infamous taper! It's a punishing schedule but failure isn't an option. I will get round even if I crawl!

I am determined to complete it for Crystal and the thousands of others who are diagnosed with blood cancers every year in the UK. The more I can raise for Leukaemia and Lymphoma Research the better. The challenge of raising money for such an important cause is going to give me so much focus and purpose in the final stages of my training so please, please show your support for such an important cause by giving what you can. It will mean the world to both of us!

Thank you

Corinna x