Running a marathon is not just about raising money.  For me, it's personal. Cancer is attacking people I love.

My sister is undergoing chemotherapy as I write.  Her pain makes my 17 mile training runs look like a walk in the park.

Over the past two years, I've lost good friends and neighbours to this scourge.  Some were mothers whose children mourn in bewilderment, others were children whose parents suffer a grief that frightens me. 

And yet, my mother, my father, and my elder brother are all cancer survivors.  They're alive because of the kind of research I'm asking you to sponsor.

I know this doesn't seem like a big ticket charity.  It's not trendy and it's very much of a 'first world' cause.  However, I say again, with cancer it's personal.  Think of your fathers, your brothers, your sons, your lovers.  I'll be running for them.  And for myself.  I'll be running with my brothers and for my son.   But I won't be running from cancer - I'll be running straight at it.  Please help fight the good fight.

Thank you for indulging me with your attention.  I hope to raise a glass with you one day soon.