With around 125 women diagnosed every day, breast cancer is the most common cancer in the UK. Men also get breast cancer but it is rare – only around 300 men every year are diagnosed. Cancer Research UK's work has helped ensure that 8 out of 10 women now survive their disease. But around 12,000 women and 70 men still die from the disease each year in the UK.

As some of you may know, my mum was diagnosed with breast cancer in May 2010. Those of you who know my mum know she is a fighter but the news she had cancer completely floored her and she lost her fighting spirit. The treatment was tough - she had two lots of surgery, a couple of months of chemotherapy follwed by radiotherapy but, being the amazing woman she is, she got through it. However, the physical and mental scars from this horrible illness will remain forever.

As a tribute to the bravery my mum showed and also as a challenge to myself (and also because my friend Mitch bullied me), I have signed up for the Shine London Walk 2012, which involves walking a full marathon (yes, 26.2 miles) at night.

Cancer Research UK is funded entirely by amazing supporters like you. By sponsoring me you can help more people survive breast cancer. Please dig deep and sponsor me – it’s quick, easy and totally secure.

Every pound you donate really does make a difference to Cancer Research UK’s life-saving work into preventing, diagnosing and treating breast cancer – so please sponsor me now!

Gift Aid it!

If you are a UK taxpayer, please remember to tick the Gift Aid box when donating as this will increase your donation by at least 25% at no cost to you.

Many thanks for your support.

Together we will beat cancer.