It’s been nearly ten years since I left Macmillan but I still believe in everything they stand for. It’s also been ten years since we lost my Grandad and my amazing friend Vicki, both of whom embodied such strength and dignity and had the kindest hearts. In 2014 I ran the Hull 10k in memory of both of them and for my friend Brian, and my God Mother Aunty Greta who were both battling their own diagnoses at the time. By the time that year was out, all 4 were gone. They were all such incredible inspirations and they helped me get one foot in front of the over that scorching day until I reached the end, shattered and dehydrated with a banging headache! I have no doubt they’ll do the same for me with this challenge too - and I’ll be sure to drink more water!

This year will also mark 5 years since we lost my father-in-law, the irreplaceable Potsy Hoff. Yet another incredible, kind soul, who was just too good for this world. The depth of this loss is still raw, and continues to affect my family daily. He outlived his initial prognosis, and supported by Macmillan; was brave and stoic to the end. As were my Grandad, Vicki, Brian and Aunty Greta before him. How lucky I was to have had these amazing people in my life, but how sad it is still, to have to live with the voids they leave behind. I’m doing this for you guys, and for anyone else that may need the remarkable people that make Macmillan what it is. 

Macmillan provide invaluable support to those affected by cancer. If you’ve ever needed them, you know the difference they make. If you’ve ever not been able to access their support - help me support the charity so they can reach more people. If you’ve managed to avoid any interaction with them at all,  count yourselves lucky. But with 1 in 2 people now diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime, Macmillan need our help now more than ever. 

I hope the thought of me climbing the highest mountain in England, at night(!) inspires you to please please please, dig deep and donate what you can. Your donations will help me summit and get back down and I’m already so grateful to you for reading this far!

Thanks for supporting my fundraising. Macmillan gives people with cancer everything they’ve got. If you’re diagnosed, your worries are Macmillan’s worries. Macmillan’s doing whatever it takes. But without your help, Macmillan can’t support everyone who needs them.Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and secure. Your details are safe, JustGiving - they'll never sell them or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs.