This August I will be taking on the Kalmar Ironman in Sweden. The event consists of a 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike and a 26.2 mile run. A while ago I said I wanted to complete an Ironman during my 40th year so this is it!

I have selected 2 charities to raise money for: Fisher House; and Myeloma UK. Both are now very dear to mine and Spence's hearts with what's happened to us in the past 18 months.

In April last year Spence was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma, a terminal blood cancer which can affect multiple areas of the body. In Spence's case it caused 9 fractures in his spine and 6 fractured ribs, blood clots in his legs and lungs. His spine is extensively damaged: he's now 3 inches shorter and under long-term rehab for his body to adjust to its new metrics. He's received 10 months of treatment including 6 rounds of Chemo, a Stem Cell transplant and is now on maintenance drugs to keep the cancer at bay for as long as possible. However, I am assured by Spence he will be here to love (irritate!) me for many years to come.

When we were medically evacuated back to the UK I stayed at Fisher House: quite simply it was a lifeline for me, and my home for 2 months. It is an 18 bedroom home away from home for military patients (both serving and ex serving) and their families to use whilst their loved one is being treated at Queen Elizabeth Hospital. The purpose-built building is situated on the QEH site, and is within walking distance of the hospital. Since opening in 2013 over 6,000 families have stayed at Fisher House completely free of charge. It costs the charity £40 a night to host a military family in their time of need.

Link to the interview I did for Fisher House

Myeloma UK: On average 16 people are diagnosed with Myeloma every single day in the UK. Your donation helps them make sure no-one has to face myeloma alone. They provide support via the Buddy scheme which helped both Spence and I come to terms with our new reality by pairing us with real people in the same position as us. They provide a range of support, information and guidance through regular support groups both online and locally, a specific 'Ask the nurse' information line aswell as a comprehensive website. They are also one of the leading funders of myeloma research in the UK, and have an ongoing commitment to investing groundbreaking research. Regular donations are a vital source of income and will help them build a better future for everyone affected by myeloma and hopefully find a cure.

I can't thank Fisher House enough for the support and care I received and the ongoing help we receive from Myeloma UK, but with your help we can provide them with the vital funding they require to help others in their hour of need and find a cure!

As I'm raising money for 2 charities you will see 2 'donate' lines below one for each charity, please give to one or both :) Thankyou!!