Hello!

I've done a few endurance challenges over the years, but to date I have never tackled a marathon for the fear of what would happen. Given the challenge I wanted some extra motivation (and so I couldn't back out). So I decided to raise money for a less-well-known charity that has made a meaningful difference to someone important in my life.

My god-son Hugo experienced severe complications at birth in 2020 and will require additional support throughout his life. His parents Rob and Rosie are a source of inspiration in parenting. I asked them which local charity had been the most helpful for them as a family and they highlighted Playskill. Seeing how Hugo has developed in these classes and continues to fight his struggles is a motivation to us all and will be to me during the Marathon.

Playskill is a small but mighty charity based in Hertfordshire, dedicated to supporting pre-school children with physical disabilities and developmental delays. Through free, specialist play sessions, Playskill offers tailored therapy that helps children build vital communication, movement, and life skills. It is one of those smaller charities that many of us have never heard of it, silently working to deliver fantastic services to those who really need it. https://www.playskill.org/

Good friends will be joining me for the challenge. Tim is running the marathon. Running the half-marathon is Rob (Hugo's dad, who is tackling the half marathon having never done more than 10km.....arguably a bigger challenge than the marathon!), Adam, Conor and Rupes.

My employer, Nordic Capital, has also kindly agreed to match funding (with a cap) so every £ is worth ££!

Any donation is much appreciated and will be making a meaningful impact to a hard-working charity.

Wish me luck!

Michael