I've always been into running ever since I was a kid. Whether it was doing cross country at primary school, 800m at county level in High School or a half marathon at the age of 25 just to challenge myself and prove that I can.

In the past I'd always run for weight loss, to keep fit or if I was just generally bored. However, now it's taken on a whole new meaning because it helps me to stay sane and it's a form of escapism. Most of my good ideas for work come to me when I'm on a run.

Like a lot of other runners, the London Marathon has always been on my bucket list and now I'm finally getting the opportunity to complete it as well as raise money for Macmillan.

By doing so I hope I can make my family, friends and work colleagues super proud. Lord knows it's going to be one hell of a challenge!

In terms of how cancer has affected me personally, early on in 2015 whilst I was working at Skiddle, I met Chris Glaba who became an integral part of my working life as a colleague. He also introduced me to one of his best friends who I quickly fell in love with and would spend a total of 3 years together (his silly prawn cracker eating friend Jamie).

I remember the first time he invited me on a night out and at the time he was based Chorlton in Manchester. I told him that I didn't have any plans (or friends for that matter) and he said 'Come hang out with us kid.' And that was it really, my life hasn't been the same since!

Although Jamie and I are no longer together, I will always be grateful for that chapter of my life and the lessons that I've taken from it.

Simply put, Chris loved music, living his life to the fullest and being the centre of attention. He amalgamated my personal and professional life into one, making me an overall more outgoing person. I'll never forget him referring to himself as 'the glue that held everything together'.

In December 2016, Chris sadly lost his battle to cancer at just 27 years of age.

He might not have known it but he had a major impact on my life in more ways than one.

Following Chris' passing, I understand now more than ever that life is far too short. And because of him, I'm going to challenge myself by completing the London Marathon and most importantly raise money for Macmillan & the fantastic work that they do.

I feel that it's going to be a great opportunity to get my colleagues at Skiddle involved in the fundraising and hopefully have some fun along the way!

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Since Chris' diagnoses, Skiddle have been fundraising for Macmillan and through a charity checkout scheme which encourages customers to donate £1 with their ticket purchases, over £170,000 has been raised so far. In the next year, the aim is to reach £250,000.

As an organisation – and as individuals – we are passionate and dedicated, and this enthusiasm stretches into our support for Macmillan and our fundraising activities.

Now, as a result of Skiddle's efforts locally, the management of the partnership has been transferred from the North West to the London HQ.

Wish me luck, donate what you can and thank you x

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