This is my first marathon. I'm determined to take on this challenge and prove to myself I can do it. I'll be running around the streets of East London where my Dad was born, and grew up in a Barnardo's home.

I doubt my brother and I would be here if it wasn't for Barnardo's. Our Dad was an orphan and was taken in by Barnardo's from an early age; it was a tough experience in the 1920's but it gave him a home and probably saved his life. He was eventually adopted by the Court family and went on to become a naval officer in the war, a Headmaster and a brilliant Dad God bless him.

So this is a small way of saying thank you to Barnardo's who are still working to transform the lives of the UK’s most vulnerable children. Any support would be greatly appreciated.

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. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.