Apart from a flirtation with competitive swimming in my younger years, I have never been what you would class as "sporty" so you may be surprised to hear that I will be running in the MBNA Chester Marathon in October this year. You may think that I am crazy (I know that I do) but I am up for the challenge. It's going to be tough and that is why I really need your help.

Your donation can really give me the boost that I need to reach my fundraising targets for Aquarius Swimmers Sandbach and the Alder Hey Paediatric Neurology Ward, both of which are causes very close to my heart.

As many of you know, my eldest son Sam (twin brother to Ben, big brother to Callie) has Autistic Spectrum Disorder, Learning Disabilities and Epilepsy. In December 2009 Sam underwent a life changing operation on his brain to reduce his seizures and improve his quality of life. He was, and still is, cared for by an amazing Neurology team at Alder Hey, and their support has been priceless. I now feel that its time to give a little back to say a big big thank you. The Littlewoods Paediatric Neurology Ward is a is a 14-bed ward with nine beds, four cubicles and a telemetry suite and provides rehabilitation and care to children with Neurological conditions, as well as general medical patients up to the age of 18 years. For more information about the ward and the work they do, please visit http://www.alderhey.nhs.uk/departments/neurology/

Aquarius Swimmers Sandbach are a not for profit organisation offering recreational swimming for adults and children, and whilst supporting people of all abilities they are especially welcoming of those with disabilities and learning difficulties, offering swimming in a quiet and informal environment. They rely mostly on fundraising and donations to pay their weekly costs which include pool fees and the provision of a lifeguard. This club has been an absolute blessing for Sam, as not only has he increased in confidence and learnt to swim, but he has also made an incredible group of friends.

I have set a target of £998. Why such an odd amount you may ask? I would like to raise £498 for Aquarius Swimmers as this will be enough to cover their pool fees for 3 months. I would also like to raise £500 for Alder Hey to be donated to the Neurology Ward for them to use as they wish.

Thank you in anticipation for your kind donations. Your support is very much appreciated.