The next challenge for 2022 will be taken on by myself and new recruit, my big brother, Tim Beale.  We are honoured (and a little scared) to be running next year's London Marathon on behalf of Young Lives vs Cancer.

For the last 30 months, we have had a ringside view of Alfie's cancer treatment and can safely say it wouldn't be tolerated by most adults. He has been continually pumped full of drugs; had countless blood transfusions; lumbar punctures; surgery for two portacath lines to his heart; numerous tubes shoved up his nose; suffered a number of horrendous infections; lost hair; vomited daily; had skin crack or be burnt from chemotherapy...unfortunately I can go on. 

Alfie's diagnosis transformed our lives into a whirlwind of hospital stays and chemotherapy. We were filled with fear, anger, frustration and so many questions. Young Lives vs Cancer understood from day one. At a time where our mental health was being stretched to breaking point, they were there to listen and be our voice when we felt like we had nothing left.

Staying in hospital takes its toll not just mentally, but financially. We racked up a huge debt from travel and accommodation costs alone. We were also faced with the prospect of surviving on reduced wages or having to give up work to ensure Alfie had the care he needed. Every hospital trip is exhausting, stressful and expensive. Young Lives vs Cancer instantly stepped in providing financial support. They even offer free accommodation allowing families to stay together during their child's cancer treatment.

Young Lives needs your help - now. Your donations will help to support thousands of families like ours.

We are under no illusion that this challenge will be tough and gruelling. The tiredness, sore muscles and a few black toenails do not even come close to the struggle that thousands of children and their families go through when dealing with cancer. Please give what you can. Thank you xx