Having ran the Flora London Marathon last year and trained extensively for the marathon I felt in good shape and confident of completing the marathon, but like many on the day was unprepared for the weather that we ultimately faced. The race had gone almost perfectly up until around the twenty-five mile marker, which I had reached with approximately 2hrs 50 minutes on the clock. With only a mile to go I felt sure of not only finishing the race, but posting a very pleasing time and smashing my previous marathon PB.

During the race, however, against both my better judgement and the pre-race warnings at the start line, I proceeded to drink at each and every water station as I feared dehydration may hinder the latter stages of my run. This, of course, had greater adverse effects than dehydration probably would have, and on or around the 25 mile marker I collapsed with what I would later be informed to be hyponatremia. The exact moment of collapse is something of a blur, with my last recollection being led in an Ambulance with what must have been near a dozen members of the amazing St Johns Ambulance staff assisting with my treatment. To my embarrassment I contrived to vomit in excess of ten times, gain severe cramp in my feet, calves, thighs and hips, sweat excessively and generally feel pretty unwell. In response to this I was treated magnificently by a group of individuals (I beg your pardon, a TEAM of St. John's staff) who facilitated my recovery. For approximately an hour I was tendered with exemplary care and attention from staff ranging in age from adult-age to youths that were barely in their teens. To think that such individuals give up their spare time to aid glutens-for-punishment such as myself is truly humbling; and to spend a springtime Sunday afternoon holding sick-bowls, mopping vomit off an ambulance floor, alleviating cramp and mopping sweat from my brow is a public service that I can only being to applaud. While I have always recognised the fantastic service that St. Johns Ambulance provide to all sporting (and non-sporting) events, it was not until I experienced the care and attention first hand that I truly appreciated the commitment and dedication your staff provide.

After approximately 45minutes of care from your staff and two on-site doctors, I was permitted to leave the ambulance and sit outside in the air. After stressing my desire to finish the last mile of the marathon at walking pace, I was permitted to do so and after fifteen minutes of further rest and satisfying the staff that I was in a suitable condition to do so, I was led on my way to the race which I proceeded to walk and complete the race in 4Hrs 3mins.

Hopefully now it is clear why I have chosen to raise funds for St John, to try in some small way and thank them for their care and assistance.

The commitment and dedication of the staff is admirable and the service they provide is something to be applauded. This year, I  fully intend to run the full 26.2 miles without incident and help fundraise for St John's ambulance at the same time. My target for the race is œ1500.00, so anything you are able to donate is massively appreciated.

Thanks for reading and for any sponsorship you wish to make :)