Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

I have always wanted to run a marathon and Reading half seemed a good place to start. I am training with my excellent and long time friend, Sally Poulter. You may see us pounding the pavements of Witney with grit and determination as this is a first for both of us! We are on track to finish in a reasonable time (for beginners) of 2 hours 20 minutes.

The charity I have chosen to raise money for, the Meningitis Research Foundation (MRF), is very close to my heart as my beautiful brother, Anthony, died of meningitis aged 5, in the same year the charity was set up. The disease causes a swelling of the brain and spinal cord and can be devastatingly rapid, as it can kill in hours. I know, all too acutely, how this can leave a family in anguish, wondering if they could have prevented the death of their loved one, had they recognised the signs of the disease.

The Meningitis Research Foundation promotes education and awareness to reduce death and disability and give support to people affected. The Charity has invested over £14.8 million in research into the prevention and detection of meningitis and septicaemia. It also produces award winning symptom cards, leaflets and posters and provides around the clock information and support through their 24 hour helpline. Priority is given to research with the potential to prevent meningitis and sceptaemia but until that happens early diagnosis and treatment are vital hence the work also focusses on detection and treatment and improving the outcome for people affected. Anyone of any age can be affected but the under fives and older teenagers are most at risk. £25 or 30 Euros could fund an hour of vital research.

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 the charity 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 the charity.

So please dig deep and donate now.

Thank you xx