On the 9^thof September I am running the Great North Run to raise money for TOFs , the amazing small charity that provides so much support for families like us who have a relative who was born unable to swallow. 

This is my second half-marathon since becoming a Mum. It has definitely become more challenging since the girls came along. Finding time to train the way I used to pre-littles is sometimes a missions impossible. And yet, I also very much feel like I have done the Great North run so many times it doesn’t feel as much of a challenge any more. It’s still hard. But I need to do something more. 

So, on a sunny jaunt around Arthur’s Seat, when I was running strong and everything was clicking (so the down hill bit then) I had the spark of an idea that I could do more. Not more running, at least not in one go, but more half-marathons. And the idea of Ten for Tofs was born. Starting with the Great North Run 2018 and finishing with the Great North Run 2019, I will run 10 half-marathons. This will challenge me to maintain my fitness throughout the year, not easy with two demanding little ladies (and Kenny) to look after, it will be a logistical challenge as I want to get to as wide a variety of locations as possible and I will need to avoid getting injured – a massive challenge for anyone approaching mid-forties with knees. 

I’m taking on this challenge for everyone like Evie who was born unable to swallow, and their families for whom life can sometimes feel like a marathon. The condition carries has a wide range of impacts. Some people like Evie keep relatively well. Some need regular invasive medical intervention, and lifelong support. Impacts can change in severity with age, so we take nothing for granted, but are eternally grateful for the TOFs charity and fellow members who take time to share their experiences and support and are there 24 hours a day whenever we need them. 

We are lucky. Evie’s condition will affect her for life, but she’s healthy and strong and apart from a persistent cough and an inability to eat chicken, it doesn’t greatly impact her on a day to day basis. But we’ve already called on the support of the TOFs charity more times than I can count. So I’m taking on this challenge to give something back. 

I'm starting with the Great North Run on the 9th of September and then I'm testing myself with something a bit different on the trails of Glentress for a wintery half in November. If I survive that with all limbs  intact (questionable) I'll have another 7 half marathons to schedule in before September 2019. The exciting and scary thing is that I don't know where this challenge will take me yet, or genuinely whether I'll be able to keep it up - though I am determined I will finish it. 

Thanks

Nikki