My team and I have chosen to try and support Gavin McMurray in his quest to raise money for the British Heart Foundation:
https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/sprint-for-life.

In Gavin's words: "Sprint for Life is my personal challenge to raise money for British Heart Foundation Scotland. I created it to raise awareness and help fund research in memory of my life-long friend, Alastair Kennedy, who died of a heart attack 10 years ago".

Whilst I never had the privilege to meet Alastair, I have heard about the impact his sudden death had on those closest to him, and how closely this mirrored the tragedy of my own Mum who also died of a sudden heart attack 15 years ago.

Sprint for Life is hoping to raise £100,000 to contribute to the development of an early diagnostic test which would flag those at risk of heart attack, allowing preventative steps to be taken. This could save lives so please help by making a contribution.

Although I couldn't match Gavin's fitness commitment, I have elected to run my first 5k to support in his activities (for those of you that know how much I detest running this is a massive challenge!) and am humbled that my team have decided to get on board to support with this pledge! So, on 25 August, we will take to the Cramond Riviera and will complete the "5K Park Run". Please join me in thanking my amazing team by making a contribution!

Thank you to Steven Currie, Chris Muller, Kat Gajewska, Ewan Johnston, Carole Preston, Caroline Macefield, Jimmy Scully, Caoimh Sheahan and Mark Swanney who have all agreed to join me in my efforts, providing encouragement, motivation and fabulous banter!

Heart attacks end the lives of far too many people like Alastair and my Mum. A heart attack nearly ended Gavin's too. If we can raise enough money we can make a real difference and people can be diagnosed and treated before it's too late.