A little over a year ago, I started a Couch to 5K course with my local running club, not really knowing where it would lead. Along the way, I met an amazing group of people who quickly became friends. We’ve encouraged each other, trained together, and kept each other going — and some of them will even be running this half marathon alongside me. I genuinely couldn’t have done any of this without their support.

This year hasn’t been without its challenges. I spent three months sidelined with an Achilles injury, which meant rebuilding my fitness slowly and patiently. Getting back to running has reminded me how much determination (and encouragement!) it takes, and how grateful I am to be able to lace up my trainers again.

Official training starts on 4th January, which means early mornings, cold dark winter runs, and plenty of perseverance. I’m incredibly lucky to have secured a charity place for the London Landmarks Half Marathon and to be running in support of The Children’s Society, a charity that works tirelessly to support and protect vulnerable children and young people.

Every donation, no matter the size, will help The Children’s Society continue their vital work — and will give me that extra motivation when the training gets tough. Thank you so much for supporting me, cheering me on, and helping turn this challenge into something that can truly make a difference.