Story
<p>Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.</p>
<p>I seem to be taking part in the 2012 Brighton Marathon even though I'm really not built for speed (little legs n'all) and I've tried to avoid running in public since the trauma of finishing last by a mile in the 100m at my school's sports day.</p>
<p>However I'm running to raise sponsorship for St Barnabas Hospice in Worthing, West Sussex. The video explains the crucial work the charity does and the real difference it makes to so many people in the local community.</p>
<p>Nearly everyone in the Worthing area knows someone who has been helped by St Barnabas, either personally or via family, friends, neighbours or work colleagues.Even more amazing is that although the work they do is entirely free to patients and families the cost to the charity is around £4 million per year.</p>
<p>My own road to St Barnabas started last year when my dad was diagnosed with life threatening blood clots blocking his liver and kidneys following a long illness and complex surgery. The prognosis from the doctors was days, perhaps weeks. I phoned St Barnabas to discuss our options should the worse happen. Although it did not make the situation easier there was peace of mind knowing there was someone out there willing to help us and my dad would not have to spend his last days in hospital if it came to that. Fortunately the doctors at Worthing came up with a risky 'all or nothing' treatment , and my dad beat the odds. He continues to recover at home.</p>
<p>I started volunteering at St Barnabus in January 2011. I am constantly inspired by the dedication and enthusiasm of the staff and fellow volunteers.</p>
<p>So please take some time to watch the video. All fundraising ideas, support and, of course, donations are very much appreciated!</p>
<p>Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer. So it’s the most efficient way to donate - I raise more, whilst saving time and cutting costs for the charity.</p>
<p>You can also donate by texting the code NPSB 99 and the amount you would like to donate to 70070. It's simple, it's quick and it's free.</p>
<p>So please dig deep and donate now.</p>