So…  Never say Never they say.   For the last few years, I have said “Never” when anybody asked me about one thing….running a full marathon..let alone THE BIG ONE in London!  However I am privileged to work for the wonderful Co-op and they have announced their latest charity partnership with Barnardo’s
https://www.co-operative.coop/media/news-releases/co-op-to-tackle-biggest-challenges-for-young-people-as-it-partners-with  This is a fantastic charity and I have been given an amazing yet truly terrifying opportunity to raise money and represent  Barnado’s (Yes!!) by running the London Marathon 2024 - all 26.2 miles(What!!)

Whilst the thought of running 26.2 miles in who knows how many
hours, let along the months of training needed scares the living daylights out of me, the thought of being able to raise money for such a good cause just inspires me so much I could not say no.  So, in
the words of Barney Stinson…challenge accepted!!!   I have been set a minimum target of £2,200 (£500 by November – yikes!) to raise for Barnardo’s and I am going to need every ounce of energy effort to do this.  

Please help me raise money for this wonderful cause!.   

According to Co-op's 2021 post-pandemic report looking at
the attitudes, life chances and aspirations of young people, Covid-19 has left over a third of young people feeling permanently disadvantaged, leaving a ‘ghosted generation’ of young people in acute need who feel the odds are now stacked against them.

Together the Co-op and Barnardo’s partnership want to reach
those young people who need support the most. The Co-op aim to raise £5million for Barnardo’s to help achieve this goal.

As for the challenge, it is going to take nearly 10 months
of training with a lot of sacrifice blood, sweat and very very likely tears..as I have never run a full marathon.  Any help you can give would be gratefully received.

Thanks for your help in helping me support this great cause.