On 27 September, I will be taking on my first half marathon to raise money for WheelPower, the national charity for wheelchair sport.

I was never a runner. In fact, at school I was the one hiding behind the wall during cross-country, waiting for the teachers to pass before reappearing at the finish. Running 13.1 miles was never something I imagined myself doing.

More recently, a cancer diagnosis — and everything that comes with it — gave me a first-hand understanding of just how fragile life can be. It also gave me a deep desire to become as healthy as possible and to make the most of what my body can do.

About the time I felt in the right place to start moving more, a friend put out a message saying she enjoyed running but did not want to run alone and wondered if there were any other ladies who wanted to get out and run. Fast forward two and a half years, and she has grown a small ladies’ running and walking group built on friendship, laughter, love and encouragement. Our motto is simple: “When friends run together, they push each other to new limits.”

This time last year, the thought of running a half marathon was not even on my radar. The furthest I had run was six miles. But with the friendship, laughter, love, mutual encouragement and support, what once felt impossible has become possible.

I am running for WheelPower because I know how powerful sport, movement and belonging can be. WheelPower provides opportunities for disabled people to enjoy sport and live healthy, active lives. The charity helps children and adults experience the joy, confidence and connection that comes from taking part in sporting activities.

Every donation, however small, will help WheelPower continue giving people equal opportunities to enjoy sport, friendship and the feeling of belonging. If you are able to support me, please consider donating and helping me raise a few pennies for a charity that makes a real difference.

Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.