I have a very personal reason for wanting to run the Great North Run and raise money for Macmillan.

In August 2023 following a routine health check I received the dreaded phone call to say that my FIT (Poo test!) was abnormal and a cancerous polyp was confirmed following a colonoscopy. Receiving that diagnosis was a challenging experience both for me and especially for my family.

What concerned me most was that I had no symptoms and generally felt well, well enough indeed to complete a Tough Mudder for Macmillan only a week after the procedure!

But the results were confirmed as cancer and it was a worry and a relief when the consultant says that you were very lucky to catch it when we did.

The cancer stage was such that a colon resection was advised to check that all of the cancer had been removed and so I was grateful to have robotic surgery which supported a quicker than average recovery following the op.

I’m now back to full health and running regularly - and putting together a programme in readiness for the GNR.

My ask is to sponsor me to enable Macmillan to support those who weren't as lucky as me with their diagnosis and treatment - and to make sure you check your poo!!

Right now, more than 3.5 million people in the UK are affected by cancer, and by 2030 that number is expected to rise to 4 million. Macmillan is there for every one of them, providing physical, financial, and emotional support to help them live life as fully as possible.

Together, we can make a difference—whether it's through funding expert advice, providing practical support, or offering a listening ear Toolstation and Macmillan are committed to supporting people with cancer. Join us in supporting Macmillan, so that they can do whatever it takes for people living with cancer wherever or whoever they are.

Thank you in advance for your support and your generous donations.