So, I’m not sure if all of you are aware but last year i was contacted by Anthony Nolan as I was apparently a match for a patient that required a life saving donation of stem cells.

After a couple of months of visits to my local GP, a few more blood tests, a visit to kings college hospital, X-ray, ECG, questionnaire after questionnaire and consent forms, I was finally given the all clear and subsequent results that out of a number of other matches for the recipient, I was the match that would give her the best chance of a successful donation.

I gave a successful donation on the 10th July last year. It’s been since this experience that I have witnessed first hand the dedication, expertise, passion and willingness of everyone involved in the Anthony Nolan family.

I also saw just how much money it takes to make 1 single donation. I made a total of 5 separate GP, doctor & hospital visits with many many hours of time taken up by a whole host of doctors, nurses, porters, private staff, admin staff, Anthony Nolan staff and many more.

It was for this reason I decided to submit an application to run the Virgin Money London marathon and raise as much money as I could in the process.

I was successful in my efforts and have managed to secure a Charity place for 2019.

I know that in 2018 there are many good causes to raise money and awareness for, but as I have a personal connection to Anthony Nolan and cancer in general, I felt it fitting to try and do my bit to help out.

Thanks for taking the time to read my story. I hope this will both raise awareness of the excellent work AN do and may also raise a bit of cash for them to carry on saving lives.