Those who know me, know that I relish a challenge. I thrive on the opportunity to push, test and prove myself, and what better way to do that then by running 26.2 miles?!

I am using this opportunity to raise money for Shelter from the Storm, a free emergency homeless shelter in London. 

Homelessness has been a cause I've wanted to support for a while now, particularly since working in London. Walking by those without a home is always a sobering experience, and although I buy the odd coffee here and there I always have the feeling of guilt that I could do so much more. 

At a time when Scott and I are saving for our own home, I realise how lucky we are to have a roof over our heads at all, especially during this past year when we been reliant on family and friends to support us whilst we scrimp and save.

Shelter from the Storm are just one of many charities that I could have chosen to support. But I believe they do great 'first-line' work by providing a safe space for those most vulnerable.You can find out more about the great work they do by visiting www.sfts.org.uk

(And those who want to follow my training updates, I'll be blogging here: www.dickensdoesbooks.com/tag/marathon-diaries)