I have decided to run the Flora London Marathon 2009 - my first ever marathon - in memory of my dad, who sadly passed away in December 2006.

Although Dad had a brilliant sense of humour and unfailingly put others before himself, he suffered for many years from a number of medical problems, including thrombosis and heart disease. He also had several heart attacks.

That's why I've chosen to raise funds for a brilliant charity, Heart Research UK. As well as encouraging people to live healthier lifestyles, the charity gives huge amounts of money to pioneering medical research into heart disease. Hopefully I can play a small part in raising awareness of heart disease and supporting this research.

I'd love to raise £1,500 for Heart Research UK and, with your help I'm sure I can.

Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor me: Heart Research UK gets your money faster and, if you’re a UK taxpayer, Justgiving makes sure 25% in Gift Aid, plus a 3% supplement, are added to your donation.

So please sponsor me now - and thank you for your support (I'll be grateful of it during every one of those 26.2 miles!).