I am attempting to run the London marathon for two causes close to my heart. These are the Royal Marsden and the disability charity Scope.

9 months ago my very brave, beautiful and inspirational daughter in-law lost her seven year battle to cancer at the age of only 24. In her short but amazing life she touched thousands of other people’s lives, as they followed her story and witnessed the humour and heroism she displayed while battling this horrific disease.

Emily Hayward-Hasan was supported tirelessly and with no expense spared by the Royal Marsden whose love and support was unconditional.

The other cause close to my heart is Scope who are kindly sponsoring me to run in April. Some years ago, I had a major accident. I was told it would be a struggle to ever walk and that I would never be able to do high impact sports. I was in a wheelchair for 9months and not able to do the job I loved, let alone look after myself. I became reliant on my family and friends to help me with basic everyday tasks.

I got a real insight into what disabled people face on a daily basis. I remember being in a wheelchair and being pushed to the school gates when my girls were at primary school. People shoved past me, stood in front me and would have conversations over my head. They would often ask the person pushing my wheelchair if I wanted a cup of tea or something. They assumed that being in a wheelchair meant I could not think for myself.

My road to recovery was long and painful. I lost my confidence and thought I would never work again. A decade on, I am the Primary Director of a highly successful multi-academy trust and make a difference to thousands of children’s lives every day.

I am running this marathon, not just for myself, because I thought I never could, but also to raise money and awareness to try and help people facing their own personal daily battles through a disability or cancer. In supporting me you will be supporting many people who need your generous help.