It all started with a 5km Park Run in April 2015 whilst at home in Northampton with my mum as she recovered from her latest round of chemotherapy. I had spoken a lot about running and after completing the Park Run in a very old pair of trainers, I finally invested in a decent pair! As always mum was encouraging however big or small the challenge, she was laughing as we waited to receive my time back that afternoon. It is a happy memory despite the circumstances. Since then I have completed a few more runs including a couple of half marathons and in October 2017 I learnt that I got a place in what I consider the ultimate running challenge ....the London Marathon!

Sadly, my mum passed away in June 2016, after being diagnosed with Ovarian Cancer in December 2014. She decided to go to our local hospice, Cynthia Spencer, for her final few days and the care my mum and all the family received from the staff was unforgettable. I have huge respect for the people that work there, they work with such graceful compassion and dignity for the patients and their families and this is why I am running the London Marathon for them, to raise money and ensure that their work can continue for the many more families that unfortunately will need them.

26.2 miles running round the streets of London with over 40,000 fellow runners, I am both nervous and excited. If you could support me by donating and help keep me running despite the wind, rain and snow that no doubt will be keeping me company in the first few months of 2018, that would be much appreciated.

Many Thanks

Anne