Last year, through my role as a reporter at the Bracknell News, I was lucky enough to visit staff at Thames Hospicecare, who run Paul Bevan House in Kings Ride, and Pine Lodge in , and see first hand the work that the charity does.

Thames Hospicecare works hard to improve care for those with cancer and other life limiting illnesses and give support to their families and carers.

The charity provides specialist nursing care for patients, either in the hospices or in their own homes and also use a wide range of complimentary therapies to help improve the quality of life for many people and allow them to continue living their lives to the full.

Although Primary Care Trusts in the surrounding area give grants to Thames Hospicecare around 75% of the charity’s funds have to be raised from voluntary contributions – meaning donations from are crucial.

In early January, while looking for a fitness project to get my teeth into, I happened to write a story about Thames Hospicecare looking for runners to take part in numerous sporting events including the Quintiles Bracknell Half Marathon which takes place on Sunday, May 10.

I was a pretty serious runner at school but since then it’s fair to say my fitness levels have dropped considerably and I have never run anywhere near as far as 13 miles before.

After thinking about it for a few days I decided to sign up and run for Thames Hospicecare.

Training for the race has been a big challenge but a lot of fun and I can't wait for the race day... not long now! 

Wish me luck!

Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor me: Thames Hospicecare gets your money faster and, if you’re a UK taxpayer, Justgiving makes sure 25% in Gift Aid, plus a 3% supplement, are added to your donation.

So please sponsor me now!