My cousin Matthew passed away in January 2022 having being diagnosed with late-stage kidney cancer 10 months earlier. He was just 35 years old and left behind his wife and three children. I am still shocked and heartbroken. When the chance came up to run the Edinburgh Marathon in support of Kidney Cancer UK came up I knew I had to go for it.

I've had an ambition to run a marathon for a few years now and am excited to be embarking on my training plan. I have already run through three named storms and a blizzard (thanks, Scotland). This feels like a big step for me. My fitness is OK but my longest run to date is probably a half marathon 6 years ago, so it's going to be some effort to get into shape! 

I couldn't bring myself to add any of Matty's favourite music to my running playlist (sorry buddy, that stuff needs to stay in the early noughties), but I am thinking of him every time I put my trainers on.

Kidney Cancer UK has been the UK's leading kidney cancer charity for over 20 years. The charity's mission is to reduce the harm caused by kidney cancer by increasing knowledge and awareness, providing patient information and by supporting research into the causes, prevention and treatment of the disease

I hope you are able to contribute to this fundraiser. I know that money is tight for lots of folk just now and there are many worthwhile causes, but whatever you can spare would be amazing. 

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.