If you'd said to me three years ago that I'd try and run a marathon, I'd have asked for you not to poke fun at me...I was five stone heavier and couldn't run 100m, let alone 26.2 miles.

I have been on something of a fitness 'journey' since then...and I thought I would set myself a very ambitious challenge and complete a marathon - choosing Loch Ness in the hope that the scenery will distract me from the pain!

I'm raising funds for Southmead Hospital Charity - the hospital has played a vital role in my life; it was where I was born 35 years ago, where I have been patched up many times (broken arms, dislocated knees / shoulders etc.)...

However, more recently, Southmead is where our son, Finn, was born in December 2018. Unfortunately, Finn needed some support during his first week and spent five days in NICU to help with his breathing.

Whilst these days were the toughest of our lives, we were so very lucky that Finn had the best care and expertise you could ask for. Everyone at the hospital, and specifically NICU, were magnificent. A specific shout out to the NICU nurses who do an unimaginably difficult job - taking such care of the babies as well as managing the emotions and expectations of concerned parents.

Finn was able to leave the unit after a few days and we gratefully brought him home, not forgetting the debt we owe the hospital.

If I can raise some money for the hospital charity, it would at least go a little way to repaying the huge debt we owe. Any money you can spare will be greatly appreciated.

Luckily, I will be running with my big brother and inspiration, Gareth, as well as good friends Emily and Anna. 

Lastly, I'll have the best support team and inspiration to help me finish the run - my amazing wife Charlotte and our little boy, Finn.

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