Update - 28 April

I did it!!  Finished in 4:24:05 and burst into tears at the finish line.  What an emotional journey.  I was held back a great deal due to the sheer volume of people, and this dragged my time down, but I ended up 'going with the flow' and had a fantastic time.  I've already entered the ballot for next year, as I know I can shave off at least 15 minutes.  Looking forward to a rest now, before I decide what else to aim for .........

For those of you who know me, your first reaction is probably correct - why on earth is she doing this?  Why indeed!  I won a ballot place in my third year of applying (it usually takes 5)  so now all I have to do is complete the course.  I was already half way there, as my training runs were around the 13 mile mark, but the next 13 will be the hardest.  The training is well underway, and I'm marking the weeks and miles off the calendar on an almost daily basis

As its such a big event, I wanted to raise some money along the way.  Both my mum and grandmother have suffered with Osteoporosis and there's a fair chance I will too, so I'm obviously supporting something thats 'close to home'.

My directors and colleagues at Keytek are also supporting me.  Firstly, my working hours are slightly more erratic than usual (- I have to fit the long runs in somehow) and secondly they are helping with the fundraising.  (Ah, you say to yourself - so thats why I've received this email!)

Well, in a word, yes! 

My aim in completing the London Marathon is two-fold; whilst 'personal challenge' is most definitely a defining factor, raising money (as much as possible!) for this very worthwhile charity is, without question, a priority.  You can read a little about the National Osteoporosis Society (NOS) below or check out their website for more information about what they do.

Please give generously - My initial aim was to raise £750, but who knows!...with your help we may be able to beat this target - check out my page for updates as to how things are progressing. 

**As you can see, I have increased my target as I've already reached my initial £750, thanks to the additional generousity of the Park School parents who attended Race Night.  This will be added on as a gift aid donation at a later date (when I've eventually tracked everyone down and collected their pledges).

My running number is 7082, so if you're watching on Sunday keep an eye out - I'll be the one at the back!!

Sincere thanks in advance for your support

Jill