Yep, you read that right...I, Annie Ball, have signed up to run the Virgin London Marathon the day before my 22nd Birthday (and a few days before the start of my final year law exams!)

Regardless of what I may think, science suggests that I am at the peak of physical fitness and consequently, I have decided this year is THE year for me to complete my childhood ambition of running the London Marathon. Considering that I was always the first one to skive off cross country runs at school, and was unable to exercise from Sept - Jan due to a knee injury and also had to have 6 weeks off Feb-April because of a dodgy ankle, I can promise that this will be a challenge. Many blisters will be sustained, many hours will be dedicated, may Vaseline tubs will be used, many tears will be shed, many laughs will be had, many muscles will ache and hopefully no 'Paula moments' will ensue.

On a more serious note, I can also promise that all money I raise will go towards a fantastic cause that I am truly passionate about, The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity. After several talks with the charity coordinators there, they have agreed to allow all of the money that I raise to be donated specifically towards Professor Smith's fund. This man is commonly referred to as  "God" within my family, as without his expertise and care as Head of the Breast Unit at The Royal Marsden, my mum might not be where she is today following her devastating breast cancer diagnosis in 2013. Professor Smith is engaged in groundbreaking research, and is responsible for providing hope and happiness to hundreds of patients and families. His specific research fund does not receive much external funding, and so I hope, and believe, that the money raised will be able to make a tangible difference.

Thanks to you lovely lot I have reached my £2,000 target! However, that does not make any donations from this point forward any less meaningful - all the money is going to a fantastic cause. So please dig deep, and give what you can. You may even be lucky enough to get a sweaty hug on the day!

Updates to follow...