It may come as a surprise to you to see that I've signed myself up for the Great North Run this October. Ahem, please try not to chuckle too much! I'm seriously wondering if my midget legs were really built for running 13.1 hilly miles but there's no going back now! Yes, previous exercise levels have been somewhat sporadic (unless daily running for the bus in high heels counts) and yes, I am just a teeny bit scared..

I've been training really hard though because my real motivation is to raise lots and lots of money for the Myasthenia Gravis Association (MGA), a charity really close to my heart. 5 years ago my Mum was diagnosed with Myasthenia Gravis (MG) and has been battling it ever since. It is a rare auto-immune disease which is characterised by fluctuating, sometimes fatal, muscle weakness. Simple things that we can take for granted like eating, walking, speaking to friends, laughing or even breathing can become difficult or even impossible at times for Myasthenics.

The money raised will go towards medical research, training specialist nurses and raising awareness of the condition amongst GPs and the public. For many MG sufferers it can take months for a correct diagnosis and treatment. As MG is a relatively uncommon disease, it attracts little fundraising so every little bit raised will be put to good use.

If you feel you can spare any of your hard-earned cash, your donations will be really gratefully received. Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It's also the most efficient way to sponsor me: Myasthenia Gravis Association gets your money faster and, if you're a UK taxpayer, Justgiving makes sure 25% in Gift Aid, plus a 3% supplement, are added to your donation.

Many thanks for your support,

Anna xx