Seven years ago I was diagnosed with a form of leukaemia called CML.  I'm very fortunate to have had my condition diagnosed very quickly and at a time when amazing advances in treatment have become available as a result of extensive medical research.  These treatments have led to my condition responding so well that I live a completely normal life.  The haematology department at the Hammersmith Hospital, which has looked after me fantastically, has been at the forefront of much of this ground breaking research, including clinical trials, and of course provides excellent care for all their patients.   I owe them and all the dedicated researchers involved in getting CML treatment to where it is now a very great debt of gratitude. 

A couple of years ago I discovered running and thanks to the wonderful institutions that are parkrun and the BeaRCat running club, I have come to enjoy it hugely.  Not so much so however that I have ever felt any desire at all to run a marathon and have always said "no way".  However, when I discovered that the Imperial College Healthcare Charity was taking part in the Brighton marathon, my fate was sealed and I was compelled to bite the bullet and enter my first marathon.  I am therefore running it for them, specifically The Blood Fund.  This is a relatively new fund which has been set up to support the haematology department at the Hammersmith.  Their world class research and patient care covers all types of blood disorders, including leukaemia, lymphoma, myeloma, sickle cell disease and haemophilia, with the aim of providing the very best care for all patients.  Please help me support them.