Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

My friend Sarah Broadberry (in her words) is now too fat to run - and as I love to run, she asked me if I would be interested in running the Great North Run in her place.

Sarah has a special someone in her life who has dedicated his life to helping others and has helped her over the years and she would like to give something back. For over a decade he has tirelessly fought for an increased awareness for people suffering from rare diseases - in particular Vasculitis which is an inflammatory disease of the blood vessels.

Vasculitis UK can help save lives, from counselling and supporting sufferers, to helping them access support, to educating doctors and maintaining a specialists network so information can flow.

The key to successful treatment is early recognition and correct diagnosis, followed by appropriate and effective treatment.

Vasculitis UK is run entirely on a voluntary basis by people with vasculitis for people with vasculitis - there are no offices and paid staff .

On a very small budget these guys make a huge difference to so many - so any money you can spare will be gratefully received.

If I can do a small bit by raising awareness (and some well needed funds) by running the 13.1 miles of the Great North Run then I will be happy that I have no only helped Sarah, but the charity she wants to give something back to.