In 2016, whilst working as the Lead officer for food safety in Lancashire County Council, I was called to investigate the death of a 15 year old young lady, called Megan Lee, who had died from an allergic reaction to some food she had consumed from a local take away. 

Megan's family suffered and still do suffer an incredible tragedy, one that I cannot comprehend, yet they conduct themselves with such dignity and poise, they are a true inspiration. I obviously didn't know Megan, but I can tell from the stories that I have heard from her parents and grandparents, and the affect that her death had on her friends and the wider community, she was a very special young lady. 

To say working on the case affected me is an understatement.  I know that Megan's family and friends have benefited from support from The Anaphylaxis Campaign, and they also work tirelessly to raise awareness of anaphylaxis and raise funds for the charity. So this is just me doing my bit. 

My reason for picking the London Marathon in 2020 is that it is the 40th marathon, and it is my 40th Birthday, 10 days prior to the event. What makes this even more special is that my Dad, my hero, took part in the very first London marathon in 1981, in a field of less than 7000, with me in my pram cheering him on, from the sidelines. I want to make my dad proud of me by following in his footsteps - although I don't think I will be beating his time of 2 hours 50 minutes somehow! Just to get round and enjoy the entire experience will be enough for me! 

The Anaphylaxis Campaign is the only UK wide charity solely focused on supporting people at risk of severe allergic reactions. Anaphylaxis (pronounced ana-fill-ax-is) is a severe and life-threatening allergic reaction that can be fatal. Severe symptoms such as a swollen tongue, difficulty breathing or becoming unconscious usually develop suddenly, often within minutes after being exposed to an allergy trigger such as a particular food, latex, insect stings or certain drugs.