I rather foolishly applied to the London Marathon ballot along with 3 of my family members as I didn't want to be the only unfit one in the family. Unfortunately, I was then was the only one of the four of us to get a place!

At the age of 55 this will be my first marathon and although I have followed a training programme, I am not feeling very confident. This last weekend I just about managed 18 miles and then had to lay on the floor in my hallway in the recovery position until I felt able to climb the stairs to the bath. At one point someone posted something through my letter box and I prayed they wouldn't notice me and knock to see if I was alright, as I really didn't want to have to get up and answer the door.

Though not as hard as the training, it has been difficult to choose a worthy cause to raise funds for as there are just so many out there but I have decided on Cancer Research UK in the memory of a couple of very dear Aunts and a wonderful Dad at our roller skating club who we have lost recently. I trust any money raised will help continue to search for cures to beat this disease that touches so many of our lives.

I will be very grateful for any donations and indeed your prayers!