One of my new year’s resolutions last year was to run a 5k. Having never been a runner, suffering from asthma, eczema and low confidence in my own ability, I knew this would be a challenge.

A few months later, I did it and then went on to complete my first 10k last summer. Since then, I’ve caught the running bug. Not only is it wonderful to see your own progress, feeling yourself getting stronger, it’s something that has helped me cope massively with stress and really appreciate my own health and body. 

So this year, I set myself the even bigger challenge of a half- marathon. Along with a few friends and family I will be running the Hackney Half in May. I know it’ll be tough, both physically and mentally, but the feeling of accomplishment will be worth all the pain.

Cancer Research is a charity very close to my heart, and one I’ve been fundraising for and working closely with for many years now. Having lost my mum to cancer eight years ago, I wanted to honour both her memory and raise as much money to help others suffering in any way possible. The loss of someone so close never gets any easier but turning that grief into something positive is very important to me. 

I feel grateful that I am healthy enough to take on the training and put one foot in front of the other. It has been difficult, both finding the time and motivation each week but the end goal is there now so I can’t back out! 

Any donation, no matter how small, means the absolute world to me, as well as the support I have received so far and sure will continue to receive. 

Here’s to doing things we never thought we would!

Thank you.