I’ve just spent the summer celebrating my 40th and it's time to lock right into the cliché, so I’m going to try and run the London Marathon, which is equal parts terrifying and exciting! The last time I ran any serious distance was a half marathon… 13 years ago… so this is going to be a huge challenge for me, both physically and mentally (I never did lace up my trainers for a second half).

BUT, this isn’t just about me ticking a biggie off my bucket list. I’m thrilled to have been offered one of just four charity places for the Big Space Cancer Appeal, part of the Cheltenham and Gloucester Hospitals Charity. They have treated my dad, auntie, nanny, mother-in-law, friends, and most recently my mum. If you live in Gloucestershire, chances are that you or someone you love has benefited from the incredible cancer care provided by our local hospitals and in fact, the reach of our Oncology centre is far wider than just Gloucestershire. The Big Space Cancer appeal will help create more space and hugely improved facilities for patients undergoing cancer treatment, making an already difficult journey that little bit easier.

Running will need to become my personality now, so I apologise for that in advance, but if not now at 40... when?!!?!

Every step I take will be powered by your kindness and generosity, and knowing I’m helping to make a difference will keep me going, even when my legs say otherwise.

Thank you for any sponsorship or support you are able to offer. Let's do this! (Eeeek!)

Chelle xxx

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**I am running for #TeamNHSGlos at The London Marathon 2026 in support of Cheltenham and Gloucester Hospitals Charity.

Cheltenham and Gloucester Hospitals Charity is the official charity of Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. Every donation you choose to give helps your local hospitals do more to care for you, everyone you love and our passionate NHS staff. From state-of-the-art equipment, transforming the hospital environment, and supporting our incredible staff to specialist care; your support helps to make an impact every day.**I am running for #TeamNHSGlos at The London Marathon 2026 in support of Cheltenham and Gloucester Hospitals Charity.

Cheltenham and Gloucester Hospitals Charity is the official charity of Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. Every donation you choose to give helps your local hospitals do more to care for you, everyone you love and our passionate NHS staff. From state-of-the-art equipment, transforming the hospital environment, and supporting our incredible staff to specialist care; your support helps to make an impact every day.**