Hi folks - kickstarting this year with a cliche: one of my many New Year’s resolution is to try and be more grateful for what I’ve got, and more positive about everything else. Likely you’ve heard this already from me because, as we all know, repetition is the key to success.

I’ll start by saying that neither myself nor the stinky little Bear in the photo are sick but I've learnt through some very complex science that dog pics = more engagement. Poor phrasing last year raising money for Cancer Research led to a wave of concerned messages for my health - so I’ll do better and stick to the cards this time:

This March, I’m taking on HYROX to help raise money for people living with cancer. I only found out what HYROX was about 2 months ago so If you don’t know what it is you are not alone. It combines both running & functional workout stations, where participants run 1km, followed by 1 functional workout station, repeated eight times. Basically it’s a really rank, intense functional hiit challenge and It. Is. Tough. But - as I’ve chosen the exotic climes of Glasgow as a venue - it’s a speedy one to tackle for the year as I couldn’t make it to a mountain in Morocco.

I’m aiming to smash at least £800, which could help fund a nurse for nearly a week in providing essential medical, emotional and practical support to cancer patients and their families.

I know it's a tough time (emotionally, financially, temperature-ally) so I’ll be gently nudging for donations right up until March when it’s taking place. If any coins emerged from your new year sofa scrounge or the winnings from your latest scratch card are burning a hole in your pocket any contributions would be appreciated.