I'm running this year's Dublin City Marathon for the cardiac department of Crumlin Children's Hospital, and in a way for myself too. I had open heart surgery in Crumlin when I was four years old and was a patient there until I was discharged at 18. So to say I feel as though I owe them something would be an understatement. If it weren't for the care I received I don't know where I would be. But I do know I wouldn't be running a marathon.  

When I was a kid and my mum was preparing me to go into hospital she set a milestone for me that I could understand as a four year old. She told me that when I came out of hospital I would be able to cycle all the way to the top of the hill to Teddy's Ice Cream. At the time, I could cycle as far as the base of the hill, (which isn't even really a hill) but would always have to walk my bike up to the top. Knowing that I would be able to cycle up to the top just like my brother was something I really wanted to be able to do, I was competitive even at four! 

I remember a lot about being in the hospital. From being a brat and refusing to take medicine because I didn't like the taste of it, to being so unwell that I couldn't even keep down water. But what I remember and appreciate the most about my time as a patient in Crumlin is that they gave me the ability to live the life I have today. From Dr. Franklin, the last Doctor I had while under Crumlin's care, to Carmel, the nurse that I will never forget, and the radiographer that did my echo at every visit. Each one of them, along with so many others played such a vital role in my care. I was never scared or nervous about going to the hospital, although I'm not sure the same can be said for my parents. It must have been such a terrifying time for them but they never let me see that. Much like the teams in the hospital they didn't make the it seem like a scary place, just somewhere I needed to be from time to time. 

All funds raised here will go directly to the Cardiac Department. There aren't enough words for me to express my gratitude to all those involved in my care over the years. If I tried to put it into words I know I would fail because my emotions would just take over. I hope in some way me running this marathon can show my appreciation. It is down to each and every member of staff that I had dealings with over the years that I am capable of doing this at all. From the medical students that used to practice their listening skills on me to the surgeons that carried out the operation. Each one of them have helped to get me to where I am and I will be eternally grateful for that.

All Children's Hospitals change the lives of children and their parents every single day. But for me Crumlin will always be special. It will always be the place that gave me the ability to live the life I do. Any donation, big or small will allow Crumlin to continue to change the lives of children all across the country. 

From the bottom of my once dodgy heart, thank you.