Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

20 years ago, in December 1994, I tragically lost my brother Euan to bacterial meningitis. He was 18 months older than me and a lively and well-loved character. Yes, we didn't always see eye to eye (because brothers and sisters don't), but I loved him as my brother and friend, and I knew I could turn to him anytime for advice or help and vice versa. Since that time I have missed him terribly. He left behind a little girl, Aisling, and his partner Fiona was pregnant with their second daughter, Poppy. The whole family were totally devastated by his death, as were his friends and the many people who knew him. Euan is never far from my thoughts and I often wonder what he would be doing today had he not been struck down by this horrible disease.

To mark this anniversary I have decided to raise some money for the Meningitis Research Foundation. Everyone who knows me will know that sport is my passion these days. I like nothing better than pounding up and down in a swimming pool, or even better in the sea or open water; cycling for miles up and down our beautiful Peak District hills or beyond (or even on my indoor trainer); and of course the occasional run when fitness allows. Did I say enjoy? Running is usually the demon of my training regime and most definitely the weakness in my racing. Hence, a marathon is not necessarily the first thing I would choose to do....but why not? Having completed my first Iron-distance triathlon this year I have entered a couple of 'big ones' next year and so completing the Paris marathon will just be like part of my training! Hmmm, maybe so, but this time I am aiming to get as close to 4 hours as I can. My current personal best is 4 hours 25 mins so I would like to get at least under 4:15. We shall see!

Please support me in my efforts to raise money for this worthy cause. Your money will go towards research into the prevention, detection and treatment of meningitis and septicaemia. Help MRF work towards their vision of a world free of these diseases, and prevent other families from having to go through the tragic loss of their loved ones like we did. 

Thank you,x