CMV, or Cytomegalovirus, is a common virus that can infect people of all ages. Whilst most healthy adults and children who become infected will have no signs or symptoms and no long term effects from CMV, it can however pose serious risks to unborn babies if a pregnant woman catches it for the first time.

The majority of babies born with congenital CMV will not have any symptoms at birth and will not suffer any long term problems. However, two or three babies are affected by the CMV virus every day in the UK – almost 1,000 babies every year. Congenital CMV is more common than Down's Syndrome and causes more birth defects and childhood deaths than Toxoplasmosis (from cat poo) or Listeriosis (from soft cheese).

CMV Action is a charity I am supporting by running this year's London Marathon as it's a cause that is close to my heart - two family members have been directly affected due to congenital CMV. One had hearing loss from birth and now has cochlea implants fitted, whilst the other has severe and multiple difficulties (see gallery photo #2).

The charity's main aims are to:

• Support families affected by CMV
  
• Educate professionals, parents-to-be and the general public about prevention of CMV
• Support the development and implementation of research into better testing, treatment and management of CMV
  
• Raise awareness of the need for a vaccine
  

The support CMV Action offers has been so important to our family and although they are a small charity what they do makes a big difference so that's why I am fundraising for them. Anything you can give will be massively appreciated. Thank you.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.