*UPDATED*

I am now (well, for this year anyway) only fundraising for the London marathon; details below. 

So, way back in around June/July 2019 (how long ago was that...) I decided to sign up for the Edinburgh marathon and took a charity place because Macmillan was the official charity. A few months later, I'd also recieved a ballot place in the London marathon and decided to fundraise using both runs (because it seemed a good way to increase fundraising and because I clearly have no sense of my own limitations). At the time I had extended family and friends who were being directly and indirectly impacted by this relentless and unforgiving illness, and I just wanted to help in some way, shape or form. 

Fast forward a few months and we were in lockdown. I made the decision to only continue with the London Marathon, but then that race was postponed, with only the virtual race being an option for 2020. I decided not only to not cancel my Edinburgh place, but also not to take place in the virtual race. It felt like a bit of a cop out, but uncertain times sometimes call for a more measured decision making approach, and I had to do what was best. 

However, I am still planning, through hell or high water, to run the London marathon. Most importantly, I am still fundraising for Macmillan Cancer Support, so all sponsorships thus far are not in vain! The plan this year is to run the marathon in October 2021, with hopefully a few 10ks and half marathons beforehand for good measure (and proof that my efforts are worthy of the cause I am fundraising for)! 

Whilst running is something that has become part of my life over the past two years (what the hell has happened to me!?), it is not something I find easy or something that comes naturally. Any donations people could give to what I think is a really worthy charity will spur me on, both in training and during the race itself. I also potentially open to do training runs in fancy dress if the donation price is high enough (I am going to regret writing this...)!

Macmillan Cancer Support is here to help everyone with cancer live life as fully as they can, providing physical, financial and emotional support. So whatever cancer throws your way, we’re right right there with you.Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them 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.