The 2025 Edinburgh Marathon Festival was exactly one week before my 60th birthday, and I decided to celebrate the end of my 50s by taking on the challenge of the half marathon 😬! I was really chuffed to cross the finish line in 2hrs 22m, *smashing* my target of 2.5 hrs - and I ran every step of the way!

As part of my training in April I also ran the kilomathon (13.1km) from Ocean Terminal to Murrayfield Stadium - quite cool to finish on the track at Murrayfield!

This is primarily in memory of my dear mum & dad (love this picture of them below!) who were both looked after by St Columba's, but also to support St C's ongoing work in palliative care in Edinburgh & the Lothians.

I fully appreciate anyone reading this may have their own causes to support but, if you would consider donating, this would be immensely appreciated by me and everyone at St C's - and will give me extra motivation as I pound the pavements!

St Columba’s Hospice Care provides palliative and end-of-life care for people with life-limiting illnesses and their families. It's an independent charity in its local community and has been offering free, flexible, person-centred care and support to patients and their families for over 40 years.

You can find out more about all of its services and work across Edinburgh & the Lothians at www.stcolumbashospice.org.uk.