On April 26th, I will be running the London Marathon to mark five years since Dad passed away. This will be my first ever marathon and I will be running for the Royal Marsden Cancer Charity, which is where Dad received treatment for his brain tumour.

I have been fortunate to run for the Royal Marsden before — the Great West Run in Exeter in 2019 and the Royal Parks Half Marathon in 2021. It is so important that charities like the Royal Marsden continue to receive funding to support the incredible work they do for people affected by cancer. Being part of 'Team Marsden' has shown me first-hand the continued impact the charity has on people’s lives, which has been truly inspiring.

After running a number of half marathons in the past, I am now looking forward to challenging myself over the longer distance. I have, and will be, training hard over these winter months. I have become accustomed to early morning runs in the dark in whatever conditions the British winter throws at me! On days when I have felt tired or lacking in motivation, I often find myself thinking about Dad and his approach to life particularly in the final few months. Even five years on it continues to give me a perspective on life and a reason to get out of bed in the morning.

The marathon will take place the day before his birthday, when he would have turned 65. There would be no better way for us to mark his birthday and celebrate his life than by raising money for such an important cause.

We would be incredibly grateful for any donations.