I'm Tasha, a woman who loves a challenge and loves raising money for good causes. Seven years ago I ran the London marathon in my Dads memory (he ran MANY marathons) and raised an incredible amount for the hospital ward that looked after him. After completing that marathon I said that I wanted to run another one when I turned 40. 

I turned 40 last year and this years marathon is the week before my 41st birthday so I'll be able to compete that challenge just in time!

So why the Evelina? 

I had been speaking to friends about how I wanted to run again, but hadn't been successful in the ballot. My wonderful friend Barbara said "well what about the Evelina?" I am a firm believer that our phones listen to our conversations and the next day an advert appeared on my social media for the Evelina London Children's charity. It was fate. I applied and here I am now.

I am fortunate that, so far, my children have never really been poorly or needed a hospital stay. There are MANY though who are not as fortunate as me and for who the Evelina is a hospital that is very close to their hearts, and the hearts of their children. The following is from the fundraising page that Barbara and her family set up in memory of their son Matthew.

Matthew had pioneering heart surgery during a 10 hour operation at just 11 days old.  To quote the surgeon, "His plumbing's a bit iffy!"  He thrived in childhood even though he had another open heart procedure when he was 8 years old.   He went on to Grammar School then University, graduating in Classics this summer.  Matthew lived life to the full and touched everyone with his infectious smile.  He was always positive and optimistic despite knowing that more surgery was necessary.  Sadly, he ran out of time and his heart gave up as he slept.

Just imagine having an 11 day old baby and then facing such a big operation. 

I would like to raise money for the Evelina, and the hospital trust to ensure that research can continue. That state of the art medical equipment can be bought, and the best surgeons want to work there. That nurses, doctors, and play therapists can have available to them what they need, so not just the patient but the whole family can feel supported during such a difficult time.

I know we are all struggling with money at the moment. The cost of living crisis is real and that we are all tightening purse strings. I will be grateful for ANYTHING that you can give. No matter how small.

Thank you for taking the time to read my page.

I will run again with the simple mantra of "One foot in front of the other "

Tasha xx