This year I am running my first ever Half Marathon in support of one of my favourite charities, Chain of Hope.

I joined this wonderful charity over ten years ago and if I had to sum up the work we do in a few words I would say that we essentially give the gift of life to hundreds of children around the world.

It is estimated that as many as 15 million children die or remain severely ill every year through potentially treatable or preventable cardiac diseases. Chain of Hope links together doctors and medical experts to bring life-saving heart operations to children in developing and war-torn countries.

I am running for Chain of Hope to bring awareness to the inspiring work our medical teams and volunteers do to give children with no access to proper cardiac care a second chance at life.

When I decided to take part in this half marathon I didn’t realise how tough training for the big day would be. Now that the countdown has begun I am giving it my all and I am more determined to push through to cross that finish line.

Finally a huge thanks to my family and friends who have encouraged me from day one. I couldn’t have done it without your love and continuous support.