In the summer of 2017, I casually told my husband and mum that I would like to run a marathon by the time I was 40. Both of them were laughing hysterically at my comment, so much so that it was like a red rag to a bull. 

That week I bought a pair of trainers, downloaded the couch to 5K app and took to the road.

During the first 6 months, I suffered painful injuries to virtually every part of my legs, but I was determined not to give up. I can't recall how many times I was told that running was bad for me and that I should do something less impactive.

By the time winter came, I was easily running 5k's and I loved the way running made me feel. I could see an improvement in both my mental and physical state and was ready to start running longer distances.

After watching the London Marathon 2018 on TV, I just knew that I had to enter the following year. I did enter the ballot, but I didn't want to risk not getting a space. That's why I opted to run for a charity. It was obvious to me who I wanted to run for from the outset.

I have chosen to run for Tommy's charity, as it's a cause very close to my heart. In my 20's I suffered a missed miscarriage, and only found out when I went for my 12 week scan. An event that should have been filled with joy, turned into such a traumatic experience for me, and one that continued to affect me for many years.

I then spent nearly a decade dealing with infertility issues, at the end of which I can happily say that I have a beautiful boy, who is 5 years old. It was a very difficult journey, but I am one of the lucky ones. I am grateful for my son every day, but I know that many other people are not as fortunate as I have been. 

The research Tommy's carry out will help in all aspects of pregnancy and birth, meaning that less babies will die as a result of miscarriage, still birth and premature birth. 

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on 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 for the charity.

Thank you for reading my story and for any subsequent donations you may be kind enough to make.

Wish me luck...I'm gonna need it!

Clare