I have been a keen runner for many years now - I would say that my specialty is a gentle lunchtime 5k - however, a marathon has always felt like a challenge very much out of my reach. After completing the Edinburgh half marathon last year, I decided that 2023 was the year to really push myself to my limits and to run the 2023 London Marathon. 

I can't work out whether I am more excited or terrified for race day, but I know that it'll all be worth it as I am raising money for the most incredible charity, Anthony Nolan. 

I had previously heard about Anthony Nolan during my time at university, and signed up to the stem cell register, but it wasn't until my best friend got a job at the charity that I realised how vital the work that they carry out is. My friend Lucy works as a Donor Provision Coordinator at Anthony Nolan, so I hear first hand about all of the incredible and live-saving work they do.

Every day, Anthony Nolan saves the lives of people with a blood cancer or blood disorder. We do this by matching incredible individuals willing to donate their stem cells to people who desperately need a lifesaving transplant. We also carry out cutting edge scientific research, fund specialist post-transplant nurses and support patients and their families through the transplant process and beyond. We won’t stop until we save the lives of everyone who needs a stem cell transplant. Every penny you donate brings us closer to that day.

I would be extremely grateful for any donation, however big or small, to help Anthony Nolan continue saving lives and carrying out groundbreaking research. What's more, you can sign up to become a lifesaver yourself by joining the stem cell register here: Help save a life | Anthony Nolan