Hi guys, thanks so much for visiting my fundraising page.

So, I've finally taken the plunge and decided to run the big one. Ignoring the fact that after each half I swore I could never run 26 miles, it's now been long enough to have forgotten the pain and I'm raring to go!

I've got 6 days to go till the big day now and crossing everything that the last few months of training will pay off.

I'm raising money for Addaction this year and am really excited to be on their team. Addaction is the UK's largest drugs and alcohol treatment charity and do amazing work in helping people deal with their addictions as well as providing an important support service for the families and friends affected. Check out their website for further info - www.addaction.org.uk

I really really appreciate any money you can give, no matter how small an amount - it all adds up. At the moment Addaction are running a campaign called Breaking the Cycle, working with families to ensure the next generation don't grow up with their own drink and drug problems. Here's an idea of what your single or collective donations might provide funds for:

£15 could pay for an hour’s Systemic Family Therapy with a Breaking the Cycle worker. This supports all members of the family in identifying, acknowledging and addressing damaging patterns of behaviour.

£50 could pay for three Cognitive Behavioural Therapy sessions. These sessions help parents recognise and change destructive ways of thinking or acting.

£100 could pay for the Breaking the Cycle worker to help parents improve their parenting skills over six dedicated sessions. Parents will learn to set boundaries for their children and how to communicate with them effectively.

Any donations you make go direct to the charity and if you're a UK taxpayer you can opt to add Giftaid meaning they'll get a bit more.

Thanks everyone - wish me luck with the race...I am definitely going to need it!!!!

Gem xxxxxx