Over the last seven years I've lost two of my best friends in completely different circumstances. In 2012 Michael Vallone died by suicide at home in Brighton, and in 2016 Cameron Forster died in a light aircraft crash in Yorkshire. Mike was 18, Cam 21.

One place I've always found solace in the wake of these two tragedies is in the company of friends, and in reflecting on the amazing things that have been done in their memory. The outpouring of love in the wake of Mike's passing still gives me comfort today, and it always fills my heart to know that people are out there, working night and day to bring light to a world that can often feel very dark.

Suicide prevention has become a passion for me in both my personal and professional life. There are dozens of charities that do more to eradicate fear and pain than I once thought possible. I've been volunteering with the Sam aritans for almost two years and have seen firsthand the lengths good people will go to to help others in crisis. Sometimes, a quiet word or simply the space to think can give someone the drive to get through the day, to think about what might be around the corner, or to incite the change that makes tomorrow worth facing.

Beyond suicide, death and suffering are often more apparent and inescapable for those living in certain parts of the world, with children often shouldering much of the burden themselves. Cameron's Orphanage Project, note operating under the umbrella of the Itala Foundation, is doing its bit to stem this tide and to help children in need in Zambia in marvellous and miraculous ways. The power of love is palpable here too, and the value of hard work clear for all to see.

Both of these charities are well worth your time and will benefit tremendously from your support. And if me running 26 miles is going to help motivate you to loosen your purse strings, then all the better! Thanks for reading, and I really appreciate any money you can put towards these excellent, important causes.