On December 21st I was listening to the Jeremy Vine show while stuck in traffic on the M25. One of Jeremy's guests was mother Gillian Scotford whose son Thomas was severely brain damaged at birth. She was prompted to phone Radio 2 following the BBC documentary 'Kirsty's Millions', featuring Francis House children's hospice in Manchester. I never saw that documentary, but I gather it was used to front a £5 million appeal to support the ongoing costs of the hospice. I was really moved by Gillian's interview and her account of caring for her terminally ill son. She explained what a children's hospice is and how they give, without charge, care and assistance to life-limited children and their parents. I had no idea these places existed and that they are funded 100% by charitable donations. I decided that I should find my nearest children's hospice and make a donation. Well, this has been in the back of my mind since then and with the stress of moving house at Christmas, my good intention was in danger of falling by the wayside.

Just recently, a half heard conversation lead me to think that somebody I knew was doing a 'sponsored name change' for the tsunami appeal. I did a double take because I couldn't believe anyone would change their name for charity. It turned out they were doing a sponsored workout. Anyway, that got me thinking of fundraising and my mind went back to that Radio 2 show and the children's hospice.

In a flash of crazy inspiration, I decided to do a sponsored name change. Yes, I am changing the name I have had for 31 (nearly 32) years in the name of charity by Deed Poll! Furthermore, I would like those sponsoring me to make suggestions - serious or silly, it doesn't matter.

The children's hospice I chose is Chase - http://www.chasecare.org.uk/, a hospice service in Guildford dedicated to the support of children who are not expected to reach their 19th birthday. Please visit their website for information on the invaluable service this (and other hospices around the country) offer families of life-limited children.

Donating through this site is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to sponsor me: CHASE Hospice Care for Children 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! Don't forget to leave your name suggestion in the comments box! Many thanks for your support.