After a torturous, "never again", 5+ hour London Marathon experience in 2009, friends and family convinced me that a second attempt would be worth the pain. Not just for my own sanity of securing a time in the 4 hour bracket, but also raising much needed funds for Great Ormond Street Hospital Children's Charity.

Running certainly doesn't come naturally so why I've agreed to do a marathon again is beyond belief. Last time, I lost 5 toenails; developed blisters that lasted for 6 months; piled on weight; and discovered I have a severe allergy to energy drinks or food while running and ended up going into anaphylactic shock. So yes, I'll be doing 26.2 miles on an empty stomach and this time I have the added excitement of a strained knee and achilles tendon...

This marathon will be entirely focused on running. I won't be texting or answering my mobile for the full duration (in itself a challenge). I'll  be waving at my supporters rather than using it as an excuse to stop for a 15+ minute chat. But most importantly, it will be head down from mile 18 and I'll be doing everything possible to continue despite every nerve ending in my body begging me to stop.

If you would like to come along on the day, I will be in desperate need of support between Canary Wharf and the Mall. Be warned though that I'll undoubtedly be in tears and losing the will to live by the time I pass the RBC offices at One Queenhithe...

I would be hugely grateful if you were able to support my agonising efforts with a donation to GOSH. Donating via Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It's also the most efficient way to sponsor me: GOSH gets your money faster and, if you're a UK taxpayer, Justgiving makes sure 25% in Gift Aid, plus a 3% supplement, are added to your donation.

Thank you so much in advance!