People often borrow from the language of fighting to talk about cancer. And from what I've seen, there's so much truth in this - the daily battles, the knock downs, the come backs, the incredible strength needed. 

And while more people than ever able to beat it, I don't believe that anyone can lose their fight with cancer. When the battle is unwinnable, having the courage to face it means you can't lose. 

A boxing match however, can most definitely be lost or won! And on Saturday 30 June, I'll be getting in a boxing ring and doing three rounds to raise money for Cancer Research and hopefully contributing towards a future where fewer peoole will have to face a fight with the big C. 

And yes, it will take a fair amount of courage to get in that boxing ring (and get punched in the face!). But it takes so much more courage to take on cancer. And even more so when you know it's not a battle you'll ever win. This was the case for my dad 2 years ago and for too many others right now.

On the night, I'll be fighting in memory of my dad - Chris Gray - who faced cancer with so much bravery, determination, and humour. If I have even a little bit of his guts and strength with me in that ring then I know I'll be just fine!

The other reason I'm doing this now is that in the year following his death, I lost all desire to move my body. I knew exercise would make me feel better but I just couldn't motivate myself to do it. In the last 12 months or so, I've got that back and it feels amazing.

It's such a privilege to feel fit and strong and well. So I intend to enjoy it and to put it to good use! 

Thanks in advance for any pennies or pounds you can spare. For any high rollers out there, I'm auctioning both my fight name and entrance music to the highest bidder! Because why not?! This is already next level crazy. 

Some FAQs from various conversations I've had since I started telling people about having a fight: 

Are you crazy? Yes, maybe!

Can you box? Yes, I've dabbled with kickboxing and boxing for the last couple of years and I intend to get a lot bloody better at it before fight night. 

Can I come & watch? Thank you! Yes, I would love you to come (and I need all the support I can get frankly). Get in touch with me about tickets.

Who are you fighting? I don't know yet and won't know until the Monday before the fight and the end of bootcamp. I'll be matched with someone similar weight, fitness and ability.   

Will you wear a headguard? Are you mental?! Of course I will! And a mouth guard.

How much training are you doing? More than I've ever done for anything before! Take a look at my training diary here: https://sineadgetsfightingfit.tumblr.com

What does your mum think?! Yeah... Sorry mum. (To be fair, after the initial shock, she's being very supportive)