A few years ago a friend - whose mum was diagnosed with myeloma around the same time as mine - tried to convince me to join him in running the Edinburgh Marathon for Myeloma UK. I politely declined. Don't get me wrong, I told him, I hate cancer - and myeloma in particular - but i really hate running.
 
I stand firm to that principal to this day. Or at least, I did right up until I decided to sign myself up for a triathlon. I like swimming, I thought. I like cycling. I hate running. As Meatloaf once sang, two out of three ain't bad. But then Meatloaf never had to fight across 1500m of cold, dark, creature-infested lake. Or cycle through 40km of undulating Yorkshire parkland wearing nothing but crotch-tight lycra and a stupid hat. Thanks MEATLOAF, thanks a lot.
 
Whatever the thought process, one thing is certain: if I can raise even a small amount for Myeloma UK, then I'll have done something worthwhile. Myeloma is a cancer which affects the plasma cells that are found in bone marrow. It is a relatively rare disease and Myeloma UK is the only organisation in the UK dealing exclusively with myeloma and its related disorders. The reason I know this is my mum was diagnosed with myeloma back in 2006 and is still undergoing treatment, which puts my song and dance about doing a bit of exercise into rather sharp perspective.
 
In the end, this is about more than Meatloaf, more than running, more than me feeling guilty for not having stepped up the first time. It is about doing something positive and taking back the initiative. Oh, and it's about you giving money. Lots of it.
 
Thankyou.