So why, why, why would a perfectly sane (ermmmmm maybe debatable :o) ) individual want to push themselves mentally and physically to run the New York marathon in November (2nd) of all months…..these are my justifications or my temporary madness explanations!:

1)    To raise money for the NSPCC who do an amazing and tireless job in protecting and preventing child cruelty throughout the UK. I like most people make a donation to charity each month but I wanted to actually get off my bum this time by completing something challenging to show my support. I think that I get the easy end of the deal, running 26 miles in comparison to the hard work that the NSPCC do each day. 

2)    My precious and wonderful father passed away just over a year ago and he brought my brothers and I up by his example, to believe that we could achieve anything we put our minds to. He also taught us that we only get one crack at this thing called life and we should try and experience and pack in as much as you can. The most challenging of experiences would be the most rewarding, those you had to commit and work hard to achieve.

My father ran 3 marathons, his first I remember distinctly not for his phenomenal time or me watching him whiz past at great speed but for the fact that he had to come down stairs on his bum for at least 3 days after completion as his legs were so sore – I am hoping that in this case it won’t be ‘like father, like daughter’! So I thought it would be fitting to also complete a marathon and see what rewards it would bring and what I would learn about myself along the way….. so far I have learnt:

*I like running – phew!!
*I get to eat loads of peanut butter – yummm
*That you shouldn’t wear non waterproof mascara when you go out running in the rain as people look at you strangely and you only realise why when you get home and you look like a panda!
*It is a brilliant way to unwind at the end of a day – a perfect space to think and escape
*Half the battle is in your mind – once you crack that the legs just keep going

But seriously please sponsor me, I am committed, determined and dedicated to completing the marathon. It is an amazing cause so please help me make a small contribution.

Kerry xxxxxxx

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