In 2016, I was lucky enough to adopt Gigi and his brother Rio (cuddling in the picture above), from the Cats Protection branch in Glasgow. Sadly, in 2018, Gigi became ill. He seemed to be on the mend after an operation, however, an infection set in and the wee fella didn't make it. This all happened in the space of 3 days.

I never grew up with animals, so never really understood why people would say they are just like part of the family. However, they day I got these wee guys, I understood straight away.

When Gigi passed away, this fact became even more apparent to me. 

The time I got to spend with Gigi and still have with Rio is something I'll never forget. I want more people to have the opportunity to create unforgettable memories with these amazing animals, and learn what it's like to welcome them into their families.

Cats Protection gave me this opportunity, and as a thank you, and in memory of Gigi, I wanted to try raise some money for them. I hope in someway, I, and anyone who donates, can help them continue the incredible work they do. You can see a wee bit about what they do below, and obviously check out their website for more info!

So, the plan is...

• For every Kilometre I run in 2019 (according to my Strava account), I will donate 25p.
• For any race I compete in and get a Personal Best time over the distance, I will donate a bonus £10 for every minute I knock off my previous Personal Best.
• If anyone feels in a generous spirit and wants to match me on a run (I'll put my weekly schedule up on here), whether it's a 5km easy day (which would be £1.25), or a marathon (£10.25), I'd be forever grateful!

The goal is

•  to raise £1000 over the year of 2019.
• I aim to run 3000 kilometers, which means I'll personally donate £750, before any possible bonus PB donations from myself.
• Again, if a rather fine, generous, human being would like to help me reach that £1000 target, all donations, no matter how small or large, would be so much appreciated, and help keep me motivated through the snowy, dull, sunny, sweaty winter/spring/summer/autumn months (it's Glasgow, the seasons usually have a blend of all weathers).

Thank you!

Cats Protection is the UK’s leading feline welfare charity. Our vision is a world where every cat is treated with kindness and an understanding of its needs. Cats Protection has simple and clear objectives to help cats:Homing - Finding good homes for cats in needNeutering - Supporting and encouraging the neutering of catsInformation - Improving people’s understanding of cats and their careAchieving this vision is only made possible due to kind cat lovers who support our work. Visit www.cats.org.uk for more information.