So after much deliberation I have decided this year to run the London Marathon for 2 amazing charities. Every few years I get the urge to take part in some sort of crazy event and this year I thought I'd go for the big one!

Firstly Eikon - a youth charity based in Surrey who aim to inspire children and young people to help change their lives. Working with at times the most vulnerable and in need children and young people in our society Eikon really do help change their future paths for the better by offering much needed mental health support before it reaches crisis point. I was truly inspired by the work of Eikon and the passion of the staff working there before I became an official employee and am now lucky enough to be involved in the work of the organisation. With around 11,000 5 to 15 year olds in Surrey suffering with a mental disorder fundraising for Eikon will allow some of these young people the support they very much need.

Evelina London Children's Hospital is a specialist hospital for all children and young people suffering with illness or health conditions. I have chosen to run for this charity for a number of reasons. Firstly it has provided routine operations for both my boys when they were very young. Having access to this service with the care and professionalism they received couldn't be faulted and we are truly grateful this is available to us through the NHS. .

The hospital also provided life saving treatment for one of my close friends daughter, Alexandra, as a newborn and throughout her 9 years. Lexi was diagnosed with a congenital heart disorder when her mum Lynne was in the early stages of pregnancy. Picked up through scans Lexi was monitored closely during pregnancy receiving open heart surgery at 6 days old. She has overcome many hurdles after her extensive stay in hospital from the point of being born and is now a thriving 9 year old, visiting for 2 yearly check ups. The specialist treatment she received saved her life and ongoing monitoring has allowed her to participate in every adventure that has come her way.

My godson Harry was also admitted to the Evelina at 8 months old with an extreme case of bronchiolitis. He was kept ventilated in ICU for 10 days before a short stay on the ward and finally being discharged home. The hospital offered specialist support where other paediatric hospitals couldn't. He had a designated nurse whilst in ICU not only looking after his medical needs but also providing emotional support to Harrys parents.

Without the professional care of this hospital the path for treatment and recovery of our children would look very different.

I am aiming to raise £2000 for Eikon and minimum £1000 for Evelina. I know we are entering in to the time of year when fundraising pledges will be flying around the place so I truly appreciate any support you can give.

.. and if you want to come on the day meet me after the 14 mile point. If I stop before that it is highly likely I will crawl the rest!

I will be posting my progress on here and my instagram (C4zzie_b) and facebook page (Caroline Blake)