So, here goes nothing.

Running a marathon is something that has always seemed just unrealistic. Then life happens and you better comprehend that completing a 26 mile course is actually not that unrealistic and is, while a challenge, not a touch on the trials and tribulations of millions of others.

Perhaps selfishly, I have not felt pushed to raise money for such a cause until the last few years when things have started to impact those closest to me. But, better late than never!

I am running for Macmillan for the help they have provided to people in my life.

Firstly, my Gramps, who is no longer with us. He passed almost three years ago now following his diagnosis with bowel cancer. The nurses were imperative in helping my Nanny, and my parents, to understand what to expect, always engaging and supportive, before, during and after. Their presence was invaluable, in making the complicated stuff a little more comprehendable and saying the right things in the hardest moments.

Secondly, my Grandad, who was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2015. From that day Macmillan's support began, working to make things easier around the clock around various scans, hormone therapy and radiotherapy. Always on the end of the phone, and acting as 'the arm around the shoulder', as my dad put it. Fighting through, Grandad can now be found as he was before - on his bike or following the Arsenal.

Finally, my mate Elliot who is on the way back from chemotherapy after a diagnosis with stage 2 Hodgkin lymphoma. The life and soul of the party, you feel as though there is nothing that can keep this man down, and I have no doubt his positive attitude played a part in his ringing the bell at the end of the treatment. This is another story to add to an endless list, and another one that has us smiling at the end. While pictures being sent to the chat of hospital dinners will take a long time to erase from my mind, he fought through and nothing will ever change that. Lad. Again, those nurses at Macmillan were among those who were there through it all. 

There is maybe never a good time to ask others for money, especially now. But any contributions for Macmillan, who support both people living with cancer and their loved ones, would be so gratefully received.

Thanks so much for reading. Now, better start training...