28.04.09 - Marathon update: i've done it!!! Woo hoo hoo. I had an absolutely amazing day, and despite my dodgy knees giving up the ghost at mile 18, and having to walk virtually to the end, it was worth every step. The crowd support was utterly amazing, and the whole race was really a great spectacle. The weather was beautiful, I had friends and family there cheering me on too, and I met some great runners along the way. Thank-you all SO much for sponsoring me, you really can't believe how much it helped on the day. I kept saying to myself "two grand...two grand...!" and it helped me to keep going during the low points when my knees were killing me but there was still a long way to go. I'm now shuffling along like a 90 year old, and counting down the hours until my massage tomorrow, but i've got my medal now and i'm still smiling. I've even entered the ballot for next year! Thanks again for all your support. Lee the Marathon Running Pea xxx

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Marathon Recipe: Take one night out with friends, some wine, and lots of foolish chat. Mix with some bravado and grand ideas, a few dares and yet more foolish chat about 'things i really want to do before I die'. Add a dash of insanity, cook for 12 months. Result - I am now running the London Marathon in April. . Fingers crossed I live past the 27th of April to do all those other things on that list.....

While I may not be pushing Paula Radcliffe to the edge of the road to ensure first place, I am indeed going to attempt to run 26.2 miles around London on the 26th April in aid of the Samaritans. I've been involved with the Sams for 3 years, and they are undoubtedly a very deserving charity. They provide confidential support to anyone who is in emotional despair or distress, or is feeling suicidal, whether by phone, e-mail or face to face. The charity relies totally on public donation to survive, so I've been tasked with trying to raise £2000 to help.

While I know we are all sick of the phrase 'credit crunch', and we're all watching the pennies these days (well, except for the bank execs) I would REALLY appreciate if you can spare as much as you can afford to sponsor me to run the marathon. In all seriousness, a charity like the Samaritans is often the first place people turn when they lose their job, or are suffering the stresses of financial difficulties, so your money is needed more than ever in these uncertain times!

Thanks again for taking the time to read my shameless begging letter (i'm on my knees as I type...), and thanks for giving whatever you can afford. If you are in London on the 26th April, come and cheer me along. Oh, and don't forget to bring some oxygen tanks for the finish line.....

Thanks in advance,

Lee the Marathon Running Pea  xxx

p.s. remember to tick Gift Aid - lets get as much money from the Government as we can!