I'm Sam,

I am 11 years old, and at the start of the term I set myself a personal challenge at Scouts, to run 40km between September and December. My Mum and Dad thought I was mad but I knew I would be able to do it.

Since then I've entered loads of running events, 8 x Junior Park Runs, 1 x Adult Park Run, running with my Uncle Adam at Alton Towers, Langham 2k, 2 x Essex XC League U11 Races and I have trained every Tuesday at Colchester Harriers Athletics Club.

My Dad entered me into the Colchester Santa Fun Run 5k where i have to run around Colchester Castle Park dressed as Santa! I was horrified at this thought, so here's where you come in.

I'm fundraising for Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals charity because with your help and support, you can help take care of patients and staff at my local hospitals and healthcare centres – providing those extras that go above and beyond what the NHS can provide, and which make such a difference to health and healing.

Your kindness can also help provide the hospitals with the life-saving equipment, cutting-edge technology, research and innovation that can transform the healthcare available to your friends and family, when they need it most.

I know Christmas is an expensive time of year, but if you are able to support my cause however small the amount I would be very greatful.

Thanks

Sam x