As some of you know, I have ambitiously signed up to do the London Marathon this October. I’m by no means a natural runner - seven years ago I couldn’t run more than a mile and had declared myself ‘not a runner’. However, with a lot of encouragement from friends and family, and some grit and determination, I’ve progressed through the 10ks to half marathons and this is now the next (rather significant) challenge.

I am putting myself through this for a great cause, SSNAP, and I would be really grateful if you could spare a few pennies to donate.

SSNAP is a charity that supports the Newborn Care Unit at the John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford. All funds raised go towards ensuring that all babies born on the unit receive the best care possible, and that the parents and families are supported.

I’m particularly grateful to SSNAP for supporting my nephew, sister and brother-in-law during their time at the Newborn Care Unit earlier this year and I know that their support made a huge difference to them all and was a real help at a difficult time.

The Newborn Care Unit can now care for up to 47 babies at any one time and is a Level 3 Centre, meaning that the most sick and premature babies from across the Thames Valley, and often further afield, are looked after in Oxford.

When newborn babies need specialist, often lifesaving, medical care at birth it can be a traumatic and difficult time for parents and families. SSNAP are there to support parents, provide funding for specialist support and medical equipment as well as fund life changing research.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.