My lovely, lovely daughter Elinor May Cook is a perfectly happy & healthy 23 month old baby girl and my wife Kate and I, like all parents, feel proud and very lucky.

However when Elinor was born on May 18th 2007, 10 weeks prematurely and weighing just 2lbs 8oz we just didn't know what to expect. Despite receiving excellent care from dedicated and professional staff throughout her 7 weeks plus in the Royal Gwent Hospital and Nevill Hall Hospital, Abergavenny there were still many anxious moments.

As Bliss has reported so effectively, Britain's neonatal units are overstretched and understaffed, so it was to Bliss that we often turned to for support and reassurance whether through their literarature, telephone helpline or website. Because some parents of sick or premature babies are not as lucky as us and because of all the good work that Bliss do, I am delighted to now have the opportunity to help support Bliss. On Sunday 26th April 2009 I shall be running the London Marathon, aiming to raise £3000 for Bliss.

There are other reasons for wanting to run the marathon in April, as just 4 days later I will turn 40 so I'm hoping this will postpone a potential mid life crisis. I also want Elinor to see me in a different light and not repeat the embarassing occasion when she once pointed at my bare chest and cried 'Booboo' (Elinor's word for a breast feed). Run, Fat boy, run!

Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor me: BLISS 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.

So please sponsor me now