After several years deliberation I took the plunge to run the 2010 London Marathon and was privileged to run for Against Breast Cancer. Breast Cancer has impacted on my own close family and also several colleagues at work. 100 new cases are diagnosed every day and it remains the commonest single cause of death amongst women aged 35-54 years old.

Against Breast Cancer is uniquely pioneering research in the prevention of the secondary spread of the disease and also the development of a vaccine. This research requires significant investment so every penny counts.

My journey started in Sept 2009 when I underestimated the London Half Marathon and completed it in 2 hrs 7 mins and it nearly killed me. Since then I completed 10k races, two more half marathons (my PB is now 1 hr 52) and a 20 mile race on the 28th March which I completed in 3 hours 20 seconds.

Before I knew it, the big day arrived and I completed the race in 4hrs 13mins. 2 mins within my goal! It was an amazing experience, not just the day itself but the support and generosity from so many friends, family and colleagues have been amazing. Thank you to everybody who supported me especially Sharon and James who had to put up with all the mood swings that comes with preparing for such an event and not wanting to let anyone down.

My friends told me it was a mid life crisis thing and they were right! So much so I cant wait to have one more go and break the magic 4hrs.