Let's start by mentioning that I have not historically been an avid runner. But I decided that it was time to start (trying to) fall in love with it for the sake of an excellent cause. I am going to spend the next 10 months getting ready to take on this mammoth challenge and fundraising for Action Medical Research for Children.

I have chosen to run for Action because of the amazing work they do saving and changing children's lives through medical research. I will be doing this in memory of all the babies I have had the privelege of meeting who have not been able to stay, and their parents who have had to live on without them. And most especially, I am running for Flynn.

Action Medical Research is the leading UK-wide charity saving and changing children’s lives through medical research. They have pioneered research to fight rare childhood diseases, develop ultrasound, prevent premature births and stillbirths, fight meningitis and polio, and find treatments for childhood cancer.

They currently have 55 top quality projects underway, including Research Training Fellowships, at leading hospitals, universities and specialist centres across the UK. These funded projects cover a wide range of childhood illnesses from common conditions like asthma to complex challenges like premature birth, brain cancers, heart conditions, epilepsy and cerebral palsy, as well as other rare conditions.

I know that there are many demands on your wallets these days, but even small amounts will help me reach my goal and would be hugely appreciated - and keep me motivated to keep running!