In all honesty, I never intended to run for charity when I entered the ballot for the London Marathon. I just wanted to run it for myself.

That all changed when a member of my family was admitted to the ICU at the Whittington Hospital, where he would end up spending a few weeks. Amazingly, and very happily, he is now back at home with us.

So, I signed up for the Edinburgh Marathon (in May), thinking I could give a little back to the hospital that did so much for us.

Then the ballot results for the London Marathon (in April) were released... 

The magazine said "you're in!"

Rather than deferring either of them, I thought that two marathons in two consecutive months (as well as a half-marathon as part of my training) would be a challenge that might persuade people to help me raise £1,000. 

Whether it's pennies or pounds, any contribution you can make will be hugely appreciated by my family and me - as well as the hospital.

Thanks for your support.

P.S. I am aiming to beat my current PB of 03:26:49; performance-related donations are welcomed and encouraged...