So my darlings, those of you that know me well, know I don't run, I hardly walk! Dance...yes! Run...no! Well thanks to the inspiration of my wonderful friend MJ, who recently bravely shared her journey about Multiple Sclerosis. I promised her I would run the Vitality 10K in London with her to support her. Now before you pick yourself off the floor laughing (yes, I bought my trainers only today, with only 8 weeks to go and not a step!), please know this. Now, I feel I should run for M.S, but on MJ's insistence I am running for our fundraising group, Phoenix - Hope 4 Forgotten Futures, who raise money to bring performing arts to children who have been affected by domestic abuse. We visit the children in Swindon Women's Refuge every week to bring a sense of escape from the trauma of domestic abuse. If you have ever been affected by domestic abuse or know children affected by domestic abuse, please donate (and think of my feet!). We have seen amazing results from tearful children, hiding behind their hair, arriving into the playroom clinging to Mummy transformed into brave confident little ones singing solo to their favourite song, all within one and a half hours. It really is moving and magical! This story is very close to my heart. Here's some words from the Children's Worker at Swindon Women's Aid Refuge..Children who have lived with violence and abuse often lack confidence and self-esteem. They may have low aspirations and avoid new situations. Fi creates a warm and welcoming environment where the group has an understanding based on mutual respect and the children become supportive of each other. For children experiencing difficulties with managing anger and other difficult emotions, performing arts provides a safe outlet to channel their frustrations. Research shows that 1 in 3 children will develop a mental illness as a direct result of witnessing violence in the home. Please help us continue our work and help these children. Thank you so much. Fi xxx