Some time ago a friend of mine told me about Team Macy and the work that they do, which led to me reading about the charity on Facebook. Being a mother of two young children myself Macy's story really struck a chord with me, and as I am running the St Albans Half Marathon on the 14th of June I would like to raise money in sponsorship for the Royal Brompton Hospital Trust where she was treated. 

Team Macy was set up by Helen Cruickshanks, after she tragically lost her daughter Macy at just six weeks old due to an undiagnosed congenital heart defect (CHD). The charity is committed to raising money for genetic research into why some babies are born with heart problems, with the ultimate aim of preventing them altogether. Team Macy also aims to raise awareness of CHD, which is the most  common birth defect and the leading cause of birth defect-related deaths worldwide. 1 in 100 babies is born with a CHD -  a fact that I certainly did not know until I heard about this charity, nor would I have been able to recognise the signs of one. 

I have never run a half marathon before, but my close friends and family know that I have been training hard in preparation! So please dig deep to support me and this fantastic charity in the vital work that they do.

 Please also take the time to read about Macy's story and CHD at www.teammacy.co.uk and on the Team Macy Facebook page.