Update May 2012

Emma's Dad has been diagnosed with chronic lymphatic leukaemia. We're fortunate and incredibly grateful as it's a condition he can live with (alongside his multiple sclerosis) for decades to come, but once again we are aware of how Macmillan's services are much needed. Please donate. 

February 2012

Despite the fact that I'm a runner, the thought of a marathon has always made me feel a little queasy. Then in April 2011 a close friend of Emma's family, Esma Kansiz, died aged just 20. I only met Esma once as she lived in the USA but I know her to be one of the bravest people I have ever met - an inspiration who never allowed her inevitable fears to stop her in her quest to live her life to the full. The week she died I decided I would run the Edinburgh Marathon 2012 in awe and dedication of the outstanding woman that is, was and forever will be Esma Kansiz.

Then in June 2011 my mother-in-law Anne Walker was diagnosed with breast cancer. Since then I have become increasingly aware of the essential services provided by Macmillan. As well as the physical support and the telephone counselling service which has helped both Emma and her Mam, they have also provided Emma with yet another reason to collect leaflets like they're going out of fashion. I am reliably informed that the Macmillan marketing is support in itself offering advice on everything from recipes, how to live with cancer, exercise for cancer and financial advice.

I need to do something. I want to do something. Emma wants to wax my chest but that's just lazy...and painful.

I'm going to run the Marathon, to raise money for Macmillan and the 300,000 people who hear the words 'I'm sorry to tell you, you have cancer' each year.

I need your support.

My target set for me by Macmillan is £750 but I want to raise £918. If - together - we raise £918, then we will have funded the work of one Macmillan nurse for a working week.

With love,

Mick x

P.S Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to Macmillan and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer. So it’s the most efficient way to donate - I raise more, whilst saving time and cutting costs for Macmillan.