On April 22nd I'm going to be running the London Marathon. I'm running to raise some money for a charity called the Willow Foundation. I found out about them through Gareth, best man at my wedding, who was treated for cancer last year. The below is his story, and what the Foundation did for him.

"Back in March 2006, I was diagnosed with Testicular Cancer - 3 days later I underwent an Orchiectomy to remove the diseased testicle.

After a CT scan, I was told that the cancer had spread to one of my lymph nodes and the best way forward was to undergo chemotherapy. I went on to receive two cycles of BEP chemo.*

During my first round of treatment, I was told about the "Willow Foundation" so got in touch with them. They were great and started to arrange a special day out for me including a flight in a helicopter.

The day out was great and it is so nice to know that the human side of humanity is still very strong. The Willow Foundation arranges special days out and events for those who are suffering with serious illness at a young(ish!) age, which brings a smile to persons face when struggling with illness and distress. The Willow Foundation exists for people like me and for those who are much worse off."

Thanks in advance for your sponsorship - it's a great cause!

*After the 2nd round of chemo, tests showed that the hospital had made a huge mistake, and that the cancer had not spread to Gareth's lymph nodes. G has since made a good recovery.

UPDATE:

It's over!!! I completed the marathon in 3:21.48, which given the conditions, and that I was running on a fractured leg for the last 9 miles, I'm very happy with! Thanks to all of you who have sponsored me!

Hopefully I'll have the cast off in about a month - but given the amount we've raised, it's been worth it!!!