Thank you for visiting my fundraising page.

*** UPDATE ***
Hoped to get round in 3hrs 30min but the hot weather (85 degrees) slowed me down to a wobble by the 21 mile point. Thought the finish line would never arrive, especially when cramp struck in both legs by mile 22. My final time for the Paris Marathon was 3hrs 52min!  Garry got round too, in 5hrs (enduring an extra hour of sun).  Lots of runners collapsed due to the heat, but otherwise a fantastic and well organised event!!!  Thanks everyone for all your kind donations. Together with the Great North we have raised over 3,500.00!
Martin.

 

After completing the Great North Run 13.1 miles for Cancer Research UK, in October, I then had much deliberation about taking on the next challenge...

I have now entered the 26.2 mile Paris Marathon which takes place on 15th April 2007!!! Arghhhh..... I keep asking myself why?  I suppose it's because I can (I think)...

So I am going to apologise for asking for more money if you already sponsored me for the half marathon, but hope you agree it would be a wasted opportunity not to ask!!!

As you may already know, late in 2005, despite feeling ok, my doctor found a cancer on the base of my tongue, so I was rushed through some pretty intensive chemotherapy and radiotherapy. A truly humbling experience. It probably goes without saying that the condition and treatment is pretty hard to get through, psychologically and physically - and although it eventually ground me to a halt over Christmas and the new year, it's certainly not impossible to get through. There are so many people receiving treatment every day, many with no hope of recovery, and their stories and comradery really opened my eyes. Although I hope to make a full recovery (fingers crossed), not everyone is so lucky.

Since then, I have been concentrating on my health, running and eating well... and have decided not to waste the opportunity, to help raise some more money to fight this terrible cancer that blights our families, friends, and loved ones. 

Why Cancer Research UK? Personally, I found the information supplied by Cancer Research UK really helpful in getting me through the treatment - concuring the facts with my doctors prognosis. Today, unfortunately it's impossible to tell if I am free of the cancer, but I am at least feeling fit and well, and together with my brother-in-law, we would like to help cancer patients in the future, by running for Cancer Research UK.

Donating through this site is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to sponsor me: Cancer Research UK will receive your money faster and, if you are a UK taxpayer, an extra 28% in tax will be added to your gift at no cost to you.

So please sponsor me now to motivate my poor little legs!

Many thanks for your support.