Nearly three years ago, I took my cocker spaniel, Milo, to the vets because he wasn't himself. I had no Idea just how close we came to losing him.

He was suffering from infective endocarditis, a severe infection in his heart, which had effected both heart valves, giving him the worst prognosis. He also had several blood clots and was critically ill. It was an incredibly frightening time, and there were moments when we genuinely thought we might lose him.

Thanks to the extraordinary care, expertise and dedication of the team at Cambridge Vet School, he was given a chance. Their specialist knowledge, advanced treatment and relentless commitment made all the difference. I'll never forget picking him up, seeing him trot, tail wagging out the vets, like he'd never been ill. I remember his head smelling of perfume, becuase the vetinary nurses had been giving him cuddles through the night.

Today, almost three years later, he is still with us. He is happy, healthy and currently has no heart problems. Every walk, every adventure and every day we spend together feels like a gift.

That's why I'm running the London Marathon for CamVet. The funds raised support world-class veterinary research, specialist training and the development of new treatments that help animals facing life-threatening conditions. The work carried out at Cambridge changes lives, and my dog is living proof of that.

Running 26.2 miles will be a challenge, but it pales in comparison to the challenge he faced. If you are able to donate, no matter how much, you will be helping CamVet continue its incredible work and give more animals the chance that he was given.

Thank you for supporting me, CamVet and the amazing people who work there