Thanks for visiting my Myeloma UK fundraising page for London Marathon 2009 which takes place on April 26th.

My sister Christine was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma in September 2004. In an unhappy coincidence Liz Charlesworth, the mother of a good friend and work colleague, was diagnosed with same condition at about the same time. In their promotional literature Myeloma UK say that 97% of the population don't know what it is. I was one of the 97% but suddenly I was all too aware.

Both Christine and Liz are currently being treated by the Clinical Haematology department at St. James's University Hospital in Leeds. They have both had many debilitating treatments but have patiently endured them with resiliance and courage (Christine still retains the happy disposition that  leaps out of the photograph). Of course, they are my motivation for running the London Marathon for Myeloma UK.

I have completed the London Marathon before in 1995. That is a long time ago and in the intervening years I have become very overweight and unfit. Although my training is going well it has not been as easy this time around. Age, cold weather, sore joints, you name it!!! However I try not to forget the far more profound challenge that Christine and Liz meet day to day.

Please donate to support Myeloma UK in helping patients, carers and family members, doctors, nurses and researchers. Be as generous as you can but any donation however small or large will be warmly appreciated.

Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor me: Myeloma 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!