'You don't sound like you're from the North East'.... I get this a lot. But I am and am a lapsed but proud Geordie. As such I have always had a fondness for The Great North Run but its something I never thought I'd be capable of doing. My love of running comes and goes but my childhood friend (also from Newcastle) Shirley persuaded me to join her this year to remember both our Dads. Both very proud Geordies and both of whom we have lost in the last few years. They both loved watching and in my case my Dad - a keen photographer - would head down to the watch the runners each year with his camera. I wish he could be there snapping me this year but I'll be thinking of him every step of the 13 miles. My training hasn't entirely got underway yet so donations will mean I quite literally have to get my trainers on and get to it!

I'm running this for a charity that I think is really important as the mother of two young men and I would love it if you could donate and help me raise money for this great cause. My husband has also been persuaded to run this with me so it will be a real family affair.

<p>PAPYRUS is the national charity for the Prevention of Young Suicide.<br /> <br />Suicide is the biggest killer of young people under the age of 35 in the UK, every year over 1800 young people take their own lives. PAPYRUS provides confidential support and advice to young people struggling with thoughts of suicide, and anyone worried about a young person through their helpline, HOPELINE247.<br /> <br />Every £15 raised can contribute towards a life-saving contact to HOPELINE247. Your donations really are changing lives, thank you</p>