I certainly cannot be classed as a sportsperson but I have always loved running until 2012 when I was taken to a wheelchair due to an unknown illness, finally diagnosed after 9 months of tests as "Lyme Disease".  Following research, I realised I may never ever take long walks again never mind run.

However, 10 years on and years of treatment later, I am finally running again and even more exciting running an actual half marathon to raise money for the most incredible charity - the Professional Cricketers' Trust.

Last April I applied for a job with this charity as I saw what incredible support they gave both current and past cricketers and their families during their most challenging times.  As a charity, everyone who works there spend the whole year working incredibly hard to raise money, including fund raising events to support such an important worthwhile cause.

They provide support to all PCA members (whether they have played for a week or a decade) and their immediate families when they need it most, both physically and mentally. I have seen first hand the damage stress and pressure can do to both an adult and a child pursuing a future in their chosen sport, so to be involved with a charity that gives so much makes me feel completely humble and question why other sporting organisations are not following suit.

The Professional Cricketers' Trust are truly a formidable charity making strides since 1975 (officially registering as a charity in 2007) to help players and their families in difficult times, including; medical advice, providing specialist equipment, funding operations and supporting so many more health and wellbeing issues, including mental health counselling.

So, for me to have an opportunity to run a half marathon (which only 2 years ago I thought would never be possible) and for such a humbling charity, makes me incredibly grateful and privileged and so determined to run the whole 13.1 miles/21 kilometres.

So, on behalf of myself and the Professional Cricketers' Trust, I thank you for taking the time to read this post and please believe me any contribution, big or small, will be truly appreciated and make a significant difference to these families who need our support the most but can so easily be overlooked.

After years of wishing, I AM FINALLY RUNNING AGAIN, please show me your support and help me complete the whole half marathon and raise money in the process.  This charity has a place in my heart as I watch my children grow in their chosen sport and hope one day theirs has support just like The Professional Cricketers' Trust gives to their members,  truly inspirational.

With my love & gratitude,

Nicky ❤️🙏