When thinking what would be the single biggest challenge I could face, I went through a whole list - skydive, bungee jump, swim with whales and stingrays (done them all and even paid someone for the privelege)…but the one thing that scares me the most is running the London Marathon.

Plagued with bad knees and hips all my life, combined with terrible stamina, for me this is the challenge of all challenges! Every year, at Mile 11, i stand by my flat as the London Marathon runners whizz past, but April 23rd 2023 will be different … I will be the one joining the race!

After what I can only describe as the toughest year, I am raising funds for 2 incredible charities.

Earlier this year I lost my Dad, Arthur, 5 months after being diagnosed with an aggressive form of Bile Duct Cancer. This cruel disease affects so many people, but never did I imagine it would hit so close to home in such a horrific way. This occurred just a few weeks after losing our dear Nan, the timing of all this couldn’t have been more tragic.

The support of the Palliative Care Team at Nottingham Hospital’s Charity was beyond exceptional; their patience, guidance and compassion was immeasurable.

I am running the London Marathon in memory of my Dad, and to thank the amazing work by all at the hospital. I am splitting funds between Nottingham Hospital Palliative Care department and Cancer Treament and Research Trust, that is doing vital, important work to help future cancer patients.

As well as for Dad, I am running this to say a huge thank you to my family - Aunts, Uncles, Cousins - my partner, amazing friends and my Mum, whose strength has been unwavering. For them all to drop everything and be there for Dad, Mum and myself, I know we could not have got through it without their support and love, and for that I will be eternally grateful!

I am anxious, excited and scared, all at the same time, and truly appreciate every penny you donate. I know it will be put to amazing use, and go directly to supporting such incredible, important work.

If I can find half the amount of strength, patience and dedication my Dad displayed in life, I know I will be able to smash this marathon!

Thank you!

Raising funds to split between -

CTRT - Cancer Treatment and Research Trust - https://cancertreatment.org.uk

Nottingham Hospitals Charity - https://www.nottinghamhospitalscharity.org.uk