A few weeks ago I told my very ill Mum that I was running the Tough Mudder (Yorkshire) to help with my fitness goals and as a challenge that I could focus on.

After I described what the Tough Mudder was, she asked me who I was raising money for... And the truth is I hadn't even thought about doing it for charity.

Last year my mum was diagnosed with cancer. 

**Yep, that feeling you get when your whole world suddenly turns up side down when you find out for the first time**

She's dealt with the illness amazingly, through the chemo and other drugs. It's been a real roller coaster of hope and despair but I am very grateful that as a family we have been able to have this time together as opposed to when you lose someone suddenly. 

I have always been proud of my mum but her bravery and good spirits continue to help us through this difficult time.

We couldn't have gone through all this without the help and support of Macmillan. Put simply, they have been wonderful. 

You'll never fully appreciate the good work charities like Macmillan do, until one day it's you they are helping. And not just to my mum, they have given real support to my dad too. (I had never appreciated the strain that cancer would put on a spouse until now and Dad, if you're reading this, you've been incredible!).

Those who know me will know that I will not find the Tough Mudder easy. Far from it. But I can not think of  better motivation than to know that I will be raising money for such a great cause.

Thank you Macmillan!

Sadly, the doctors have said my mum only has a few days left...  :(