It's a dream for some to receive a place in the London Marathon - It certainly wasn't mine.  

I've been running casually for about 4 years and during that time cant say I've ever really enjoyed it.  I have arthritis in my toes and ankles and not exactly athletically built.  I detest every step but there is something a bit euphoric about completing a race or achieving a goal.

I put in for the ballot as part of me felt it would be a goal and achievement that I would be proud of but I never expected I would actually be chosen - I was!!!!!  The fear and realization when I opened the email that I would have to run 26.2 miles made me feel sick - I wanted to cry.

Every time I told a family member or friend the look on their faces wasn't exactly encouraging - the faces have ranged from hysteria, amusement, pity and total confusion.  The questions would follow "How far is a Marathon?" "Why on earth do you want to do that?" "Can you not defer it? "Is Andy doing it?"

The answers would follow "its 26.2 miles - 26.2 Frickin miles - Yes I know, that's far? "I don't want to do it!" " I can defer but would only be in the same position next year!" and "No, he isn't - I got a place and he never!"  

"Why on earth am I doing this when Andy isn't?! Its his dream not mine!!!!"  I was in denial - kind of hoped if I didn't think about it it wouldn't happen!  It is happening and getting closer.

I have had to turn the negative energy into the strength to get me through - I am going to do this!  I am going to run (well plod my way through) the London Marathon!!!

I've decided to use this opportunity to raise funds for Diabetes UK, We have two close family members that live with this disease every day.  I am going to use the pain and discomfort and turn it into something positive and ask for donations and support to encourage me through the next 4 months.  

My training has started and so far its going well!  The last 2 months I have tried to just learn to enjoy getting out - To make running part of my routine.  From now on I need to focus on increasing my miles and speed.  

I am under no illusion that this is going to be easy.  The next 4 months are pretty much going to have to be dedicated to this - People with Diabetes live with discomfort and inconvenience day in / day out for life.  They have to watch continuously what they eat and drink - I'm sure I can do this for 4 months!

Excitement is now starting to kick in!

Please give what you can or send me words of encouragement - I'm really going to need it!

Updates to follow.

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