"I am not a runner!" "I am not built for running!" "Why do people waste their time running??!" 

Phrases you may have heard me utter not so very long ago. And then along came the amazing Edinburgh Children's Hospital Charity, and their fundraising challenge 'Lap the Map'. A team event to collectively, virtually run or walk the distance of the Scottish coastline. I began to clock the miles by walking, but my inner team (or was it competitive?) spirit kicked in and I began to run! Like Forrest Gump I just kept going… and I didn't die!! At the expense of sounding like the smug runners I used to turn my nose up at, I now have the running bug and I love it! #runningloser

Now I'd like to thank ECHC for three reasons:

1. They are a truly awesome charity supporting children, young people, and their families and carers. They transform the Royal Hospital for Children and Young People, physically by providing a  hospital shop, a Hub for families, artwork and equipment, and emotionally by putting on events and activities in the hospital, providing wellbeing support, youth work...the list goes on and on.

2. They support the RHCYP staff. By looking after the clinical and non-clinical teams, we can look after our patients better, and for that I am personally very grateful.

3. For being responsible for giving me the running bug, and drawing bone-shapes in Strava!! For extra-generous donations, I will Strava-art a shape of your choice! Bones are my speciality! Nothing X-rated mind you - it's a children's charity after all...

I have never run as far as a half marathon in my life and I would really appreciate your support! Please donate whatever you can to this amazing charity. Every day I see the direct effects of the fundraising and donations - the money really goes to the children, young people and families who need it most, so please dig deep if you can. 

Many thanks

Emily x