When I entered the London Marathon Ballot in 2019, my second time trying, I never imagined for one minute I would get allocated a place! I felt both excited and nervous at the same time of the prospect of having to run 26.2 miles! I knew it was going to involve a lot of commitment and hard work and I therefore wanted to achieve this goal, not only for myself, but two charities close to my heart.

Earlier in the same year of entering the ballot, my partners Mum had just finished her treatment for Breast Cancer and later in 2019, my own Mum was diagnosed with Breast Cancer. I'm grateful to be able to say, both have now had the all clear after nearly a year each of treatments and surgeries. I therefore want to be able to raise money for Breast Cancer Now, as without their research and support, the outcome could be different for so many women.

I also wanted to raise money for the Stroke Association. This is in memory of my Grampy who many of you will know, was a very big part of my life. There is still a lot to learn regarding the cause of strokes and if the effects can be reversed, therefore I want to be able to support the research in this area, that affects so many families.

Following Covid, it feels like I have been training for this Marathon for a lifetime, therefore I really cannot wait now to give it my all. Thank you for reading my story and I really appreciate anything you can give and I know all your generosity will drive me around the course.