Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

Can you remember any of those experiences we all had as children when you were faced with a situation that frightened you and left you feeling desperately scared and lonely? When all you wanted was a parent, sibling or a friend to appear and put a friendly, protective arm around you and reassure you that all was going to be ok?

Being diagnosed with breast cancer, I think, must be the adult version of that scenario for both the patient and their family.

Can you also remember the relief you felt when that person appeared and comforted you?

The Haven is that comforter, that supporter, that protective arm to women who have been told they have breast cancer.

The NHS provided their best medical care when my mother had breast cancer but we, as a family, would so have appreciated the additional, caring support of The Haven. I could write forever about their expertise but a brief look at their site, www.thehaven.org.uk, will soon show you how invaluable they are to women going through one of the worst experiences of their lives.

The Haven wasn't around for us back then in 1973 and I can't turn back time to change either that or the fact my mum wasn't one of the lucky ones. What I can do though, with your help, is ensure The Haven's continuity now for whoever may need them.

That's why I'll be lining up on April 22nd for my 12th consecutive London Marathon.

Just to make it more interesting this year I'm going to run from the Hereford Haven to the London Haven (around 150 miles) just before the marathon. I'm going completely solo, running in uniform and carrying everything I need for the week or so it will take me in my postman's trolley, as 'skilfully' demonstrated in the short clip which you can view by clicking on the picture in the gallery below.

I'm staying with friends or finding accommodation wherever I happen to stop each evening. I'm using my own holiday for this little venture and am paying all my own costs so every penny donated goes directly to The Haven.

As always, I'm very aware that my aches and pains will ease after a few days rest. There is no such guarantee for the people I'm running for so please consider a donation.

If you make your e mail address visible to me I'll mail you a few weeks after the marathon to let you know how it all went, including the total raised. Meanwhile you can follow my Tweets at @PostmanMikeC

I'm really excited about this adventure and would love you to join me in it.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer. So it’s the most efficient way to donate - I raise more, whilst saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

Thanking you in anticipation of your kindness and generosity

Mike Chandler