I am running the 2015 London Marathon in memory of a wonderful little girl called Isla Cecil. The daughter of our next door neighbours, she was born on 7th August 2011, and quickly became a friend to my children. Her face was never without a smile, and her infectious laughter would carry over into our garden, making us all smile with her. 

On the 7th October 2012, she was taken into Great Ormond Street Hospital and diagnosed with an aggressive brain tumour. It originated in her brain stem and had spread to her spine. Due to her age and the location of the tumour, it was inoperable and untreatable. It was a very rare tumour called ETANTR. On the 7th November Isla died in her parents arms at home.

We miss Isla every day, and remember her cheeky grin with such fondness. Losing such an angel truly broke our hearts.

In the following months, her inspirational parents, Michael and Anna, endeavoured to raise £250,000 to help fund a research consortium set up by Isla's Great Ormond Street oncologist, Dr Darren Hargrave, to undertake much needed research into childhood brain tumours, including ETANTR. Within 12 months they had raised £500,000. 

Great Ormond Street have provided huge support for the Cecil family, from their incredible care for Isla, to their ongoing support for Mikey and Anna. Their unending care to sick children and their families is inspirational. I will be unbelievably proud to run for such a wonderful charity, and in memory of such a special little girl. 

So, please donate generously for this incredible charity. I have two children under 5, and had never run further than 10k until a few months ago. 

Thanks!

Alex