This year, I thought about running the London Marathon. But I decided my fitness at the time was so bad and considering my family history, it was probably not a good idea. But the Great North Run, now that is something that I can train for, keep an eye on my heart while I am training and raise money for CRY. And I am lucky enough to have the people around me who want to do the same.

First of all I ask my Dad. He has already run in this race before for CRY and I thought it was about time he did it again. Out of all the people in the world, I am glad my Dad is doing this with me as he has been so incredible and believed in everything I do.

The next person I asked was my best mate, Martin Andrews (Marty). A couple of years ago, Marty twisted his knee really badly when playing football and has been unable to do any sport since then. So he started to run. To see his attitude change from negative and thinking he will never be able to do anything again to the posititve, motivator he is today has been kind of an inspiration for me to do this.

I thought the team was complete when CRY informed me that we had 10 places left, I knew only one person who would do it, and who deserved to do it. Sam Cliff. Sam gave up smoking last September and his fitness has just gone from strength to strength. Not only is he one of the quickest people I have ever seen on a football pitch, he is determined in everything he does and I will be proud to run with him, Marty and my Dad.

Running has never been my strong point, nor have I ever enjoyed it. Which is in a way, the reason why I am doing this. After my sister, Laura died 8 years ago now, rasing money for CRY has always been a priority. Now I work for them and I see everyday where the money goes and how it is spent, it makes me want to do so much more. So much has been done over the last ten years CRY has been together, but there is so much more that can still be done to reduce the number of young deaths in the UK.

Thank you for visiting my fundraising page. Please dig deep and sponsor me online.

Donating through this site is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to sponsor me: Cardiac Risk in the Young will receive your money faster and, if you are a UK taxpayer, an extra 28% in tax will be added to your gift at no cost to you.

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Many thanks for your support.