So, where to begin...

Well, how about 13 January 2011. I remember the call as though it were moments ago. Nan had been found at home having suffered a major stroke and was on her way to St Thomas' Hospital to the Hyper Acute Stroke Unit. Right then her challenge began.

Very sadly and despite many hours of brilliant treatment and care, Nan never recovered from her stroke. Though stubborn and determined to the end (well, what do you expect - she was related to me after all!), she passed away on 5 June 2011, surrounded by her family.

So, I wanted to do something meaningful to raise some money in memory of a wonderful grandmother and apparently, I have taken leave of my senses with this challenge idea! She would have approved heartily though I know and raising some cash for The Stroke Association seems totally appropriate to me.

On 13 Jan 2012, I begin my challenge - The Dawkins 2012 Challenge, if you will! I am committing to lose 5st (70lbs) or more, in bodyweight by 25 December 2012.

Now those of you who know me well and my love of chocolate and alcohol, will know that this challenge is going to take a significant chunk of effort and a pretty big lifestyle change for me. But, I am totally determined and focused on getting there.

I know times are a little tough for everyone at the moment, but even if you can spare a fiver in sponsorship, your gesture would mean everything to me and my motivation to raise some money in Nan's memory.

I am very generously being sponsored by Scott and Bart @FitMed Fitness Clinic (http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150549995111187.422178.582261186&type=3#!/pages/FitMed-Fitness-Clinic/262870800418583). They will weigh me on a weekly basis and torture me a little more frequently. I am hoping to run a blog off of their website too, so that you can all delight in my blood, sweat, tears and undoubted tantrums!

I am totally grateful for your sponsorship and here's to the Dawkins Challenge 2012!

Charlotte xx