I promise I'll keep it short. So give it a read. 

I'll tell you why this is my second attempt at London Marathon in a moment but first the reason I'm running for Penny Brohn. I've visited a few times now and two things always strike me; the lovely environment and the lovely people. And what you have to remember is that everything they offer is free. 

When you arrive, you think you've got the wrong place. Surely this is a country retreat. Not somewhere where people with cancer come?? 

That's why it's amazing. It's welcoming, homely and you immediately feel comfortable. 

And the people - not only do they know what they are doing, they are amazing at what they do and they will to help you live well with cancer. And they're fun too. It's an amazing environment to be in.  So if you can, I'd love you to donate to help them continue the great work they do. 

Now the reason this is my second attempt. In 2010 I ran to raise money for a children's cancer charity. My youngest cousin Fergus had recently died from the disease and I wanted to do something to raise money so that fewer people experience the heartbreak of losing a loved one at such a young age. 

But I didn't finish London Marathon. I ran 22 miles and overheated. I blacked out, collapsed and went to hospital. Not finishing bothers me everyday. 

So my reasons for running this time round are two fold. Firstly to raise money for the lovely team at Penny Brohn, who I know will use it to help people with cancer. And also to finish what I started in 2010 and run up the Mall and make sure Fergus knows I finished the bloody thing after all this time. 

And I'd love it if you could find a few quid to keep me motivated along the way. 

Jx