Throughout 2011, alongside family and great friends, I completed a number of challenges to raise money for the JDRF. So far the generosity has been overwhelming having raised £1,805, making every injury, tear and worry worthwhile. A big thank you to everyone who has supported both the JDRF and me so far.  

Undoubtedly this is an incredible amount, however in my usual style I've set myself a tall order... raising £5,000! I suppose the only problem with fundraising is that you constantly have to raise your game to keep the sponsorships coming in. Having completed the Liverpool Half Marathon, Prague Volkswagen Full Marathon and British Gas Great North Swim in 2011 I have had to think of some ridiculous challenges. One of which, my friends have somehow convinced me is a good idea.

On April 10th I will commence my next big challenge, and cycle London to Paris over 3 days. Arriving in Paris on the 12th April I will have a couple of days to recuperate before running the Paris Marathon on Sunday 15th April.

Currently I have reached 18 miles running in training, have two black toes, and no idea how to fix a bike tyre puncture. Questioning my sanity I am relying upon 3 things to help me complete this challenge.

1. My 6 great friends who are cycling to Paris alongside me. I would literally get lost without them!

 2. My sister's beautiful voice, incredible braveness and strength over the last 12 months. Jade has overcome near blindness and the reality of a changed future and begun an amazing journey into the world of music. To listen to jade please visit her very new website www.dariushandjade.co.uk  . Whenever I am struggling I can guarantee listening to Jade will put it all back into perspective.

3. Your very kind sponsorships. Every penny that goes some way to help find the cure for Juvenile Diabetes means an awful lot to both me and my family. The JDRF are a fantastic charity and will one day change the future. Please visit www.jdrf.org.uk to find out more about the work JDRF do.

I thank you all in advance.

Now it’s time for another bowl of porridge and to plan this Saturday's cycle route....