At the start of the year I set myself the challenge to run and be able to use the gift of my body to raise funds for charities. As Sense is my charity of the year, I will be raising money for them through these two events.

Only 5 months ago, I could not run a foot, never mind 13.1 miles. I set myself the challenge of being fit enough to complete the half route of the Spires and Steeples challenge.

Earlier this year I signed up to join the Sleaford Striders evening course “from couch to 5k”. At first, I thought I could not complete it but after 7 weeks I collected my first 5K medal. I now run a weekly 5k at Belton House Park run. I have now become a full member at my local running club and have just completed my first 10k run and are now building up to a half marathon level.

At one point I did not think I would make it due to a shin splint injury with both legs. I managed to get over them quickly and my running is going from strength to strength.

Sense became my charity of the year as my sister is a resident in one of their homes. They are an amazing charity who do so much for people like my sister.

Earlier in the year I raised over £300 by hosting a birthday afternoon tea and now I hope to raise as close to £150 by completing the two runs.

If this description appears different from the first time you read it, that is because I have added a second a run. To be clear, the two runs are two weeks apart. I hope to be at a full Marathon level by 2019 but that won't happen this year.

To be able to achieve the two half's, in two weeks will be a massive achievement. I have had to over come social anxiety, depression and to develop the passion to do this.

Run dates:

Spires & Steeples: 15/10/2017
Worksop Half Marathon: 29/10/2017

My next 10k run is on the 17th September. It is a tough cross country course at Grimesthorpe. Training is being increased each week. Currently I am running betwen 13-15 miles a week and by October, aim to have that up too 25 miles a week.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.