1 in 7 will lose a parent by the age of 30.

I'm running the Manchester Marathon this year on behalf of It's Time, a charity that helps support those that have lost a parent.

I'm one of the lucky ones as both of my parents are here today. However, for some of my closest friends, they did not have the support a charity like It's Time could have provided. This is why this charity is important to me - the grief of losing a parent has been a part of their lives, and they are now a big part of mine.

Now that I see my friends starting families of their own, It's Time becomes all the more important; as a place to talk, to get support, to share experiences, to know that you are not alone.

Whilst I like my running, I've never attempted a marathon before, so this will be a big test for me no matter what. The motivation of running for It's Time, and training through the early wintery months of the year will be made all the more easier with your donations, so please give generously!