Allegedly, while visiting my family in Ireland last Christmas, I made a promise to two of my brothers that I'd join them in running in the Cork City Marathon on June 7th this year.  This didn't sound like something I'd ever have said.  And definitely not something I'd ever do. They run marathons for fun while I've never been a runner.  Walking is great.  I LOVE it.  It's cool. 

But a 'promise' is a promise.  Since then I've run in blizzards of freezing snow, solid horizontal sleet, nipple pummelling hailstones, winds that'd blow your clothes right off and the oppressive dry, clawing, endless, heat of an early English Spring. 

So my first promise is that on June 7th this year, I will be running in the Cork City Marathon.

My second promise is to raise £555.55 for Chestnut Tree House Children's Hospice ( http://www.chestnut-tree-house.org.uk ). PLEASE take a few seconds to read about Chestnut Tree, below. Then commit a few seconds more to make a donation, however small - even a couple of quid would be very very welcome - Thanks.

Chestnut Tree House is the only children's hospice in Sussex and cares for children and young adults from 0-19 years of age with progressive life-limiting illnesses - such as Muscular Dystrophy, Cystic Fibrosis, Hunters Syndrome, Spinal Muscular Atrophy, multiple disabilities, cancer and progressive genetic disorders. 

The hospice offers support for the whole family - allowing children and families to spend time in each others company, to do things they wouldn't normally be able to do and to create special memories together. Psychological support, care in bereavement therapy, end of life and respite care and sibling support are all offered, free of charge to families.

However, the hospice relies almost entirely on the generosity, help and support of people like you.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure, and no details are ever passed on to third parties. Donations are sent directly to the charity, and Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer.

Thanks for taking the time to read, and for your support
 

Steve