We are participating in the Birmingham Great Run to raise money for a wonderful organisation: Acorns Children's Hospice in Selly Oak. Mo Farah needn't worry given the state of our knees and backs (we're getting old!) but we are going to run, walk or crawl our way around those 13.1 miles, no matter what!

Philippa says:

Acorns came into my life last year when my 3 year-old god-daughter, Niamh, spent the last six weeks of her life in the care of the Hospice.

On my visits there I was moved by the genuine kindness and warmth of all the staff. They did all they could to fully support Niamh's parents and sister and made time to welcome and involve extended family and friends too.

Instead of sitting by a hospital bed, we were able to walk with Niamh in the delightful volunteer-maintained garden, splash around with her in the swimming pool, play with her in the amazing multi-sensory room and listen to live music out on the courtyard patio.

Acorns provided a calm, comforting and secure environment when everyone needed it most. It is a very special and inspiring place and I would encourage you to dig deep into your pockets to ensure that other children and their families are able to rely on Acorns in the same way.

My friend and Niamh's mother, Helene, is also running and has managed to recruit a number of other friends and family members! Visit her fundraising page here: http://www.justgiving.com/niamhsfriends

Avgi says:

I decided to sign up for this half marathon 8 months ago. For some reason, I thought I’d have plenty of time to train... I joined a run club in Regent’s Park, bought myself high tech, super cool running kit that almost makes me look like a pro and kept training throughout the cold wintery nights and (not-so) hot summer days. I had Mo Farah as my inspiration and David Guetta tunes as my motivation. There were moments of weakness and plenty of excuses not to train.. (‘it’s too cold’, ‘I’m hungry’, ‘my knee hurts’, ‘it got dark, too dangerous!’) but here we are, 8 months later, and the moment of truth has come!

Joking aside, the biggest motivation of all, and what kept me going, is the cause that we are supporting. When Philippa told me about her god-daughter’s story and Acorns Children’s Hospice, I immediately wanted to team up with her and help her raise money. So please be generous, your money will do great things. Philippa and I are not going to let you down - we are going to finish this race! Thank you for reading and wish us luck!