I am running the London Marathon and the London Landmarks half marathon to raise money for the National Brain Appeal.

In April 2024 I was diagnosed with two brain tumours out of the blue which has changed mine and my family's lives forever.

I remember watching the London Marathon on TV three days later in a complete state of shock. I should have been running the Blackpool marathon but was instead trying to deal with the diagnosis bombshell with family at home. I vowed that when we made it though the battle then I would run the London marathon again.

I was very lucky to be put in contact with The National Hospital for Neurology at UCL, Queen Square where I came under the care of the incredible Mr Neil Kitchen.

Five sets of surgery since and I am doing well. It has been an incredible battle but I have had the most amazing support from friends and family. On leaving hospital last June after my major operation I was unable to open my left hand and walking was a struggle. I was eventually allowed home after intensive physio to find that my colleagues at Bidpath had setup a charity page for me to raise funds for the Brain Tumour Charity. We have so far raised over £14,000 as a business from colleagues clients and friends. Thank you all!

Post surgery last June I was not able to walk very well or open my hand. A lap of Queen Square with two nurses was all I could manage.

This inspired me to contact the charity and ask for a place in the London Marathon. My surgeon, Mr Kitchen is a regular London Marathon runner and has raised huge amounts for the National Brian Appeal so I felt I should do my bit to say thank you for the incredible treatment and care I received at Queen Square. The national brain appeal is directly linked to Queen Square so has a huge impact on the work they do.

Since agreeing to do the marathon we have been hit with a number of bumps but I am determined to do it.

I am back running and fully focused on hitting the start line for both the London Landmarks Half Marathon and then the full London Marathon on April 27th.

It will be my 21st marathon but by far the most mentally and emotionally challenging! 💪💪💪