As most of you know it was 10 years ago this year that I first learned about Maggie’s. The team at their centre in Dundee proved a real lifeline to Lou's Mum throughout her cancer treatment, and provided Lou with endless support during the final months of her Mum's illness.

This autumn I will be running The Great North Run in Newcastle on 8th Sept, the Windsor Half on 30th Sept, and finally the Royal Parks Half on 14th Oct. Lou will also be joining me to complete the 10 mile Maggie's Culture Crawl in London on 28th September.

Today there are two million people living with, or after cancer in the UK. Maggie’s Centres provide free practical, emotional and social support to people with cancer and their family and friends.To find out more check out this short video Maggie'sminute.

It costs £2,400 to run a Maggie's Centre for a day and they are only able to open their doors free of charge due to the generosity of others. All the money I raise will directly support the growing network of Maggie's centres throughout the UK and the activities they run, for example:

• £3 will pay for tea for a day at Maggie's 'Kitchen Table', the heart of each Centre - a place where people can sit and chat, or take some time over a quiet cup of tea
  

• £65 will pay for a family to receive one hour of professional support, helping them to rebuild their lives after losing someone to cancer.
  

• £100 will pay for a two hour Managing Stress session for up to 10 people, exploring ways to relax and find calmness in day to day life when dealing with the challenges of cancer.

People suffering the affects of Cancer need places like Maggie’s, and Lou and I remain eternally grateful for the fantastic work they do. 

Thanks in advance for your support

Matt