I've decided to open my fundraising page 6 months before the big 'M' day next April and after completing my first training run in the driving rain.

At this stage I can not imagine running more than 3 times the distance I have managed so far but I've been told that it'll all be ok!

My main reason for running the Marathon is to raise much needed funds for the British Heart Foundation. I will be running in memory of my uncle David, who died very suddenly in September 2011, aged 62, on the first day of a cycling holiday with friends. He was a keen hiker and cyclist and always lead a very active life so the news was a devastating shock for all who ever knew Dave. He left behind his wife, Stephanie, his daughters Rachel and Becky, and his first grandchild, Heather who had been born 4 days before. 

I think he would really love the idea of me raising money for research into heart disease. £50 pays a PhD student for 2 hours research. The BHF currently fund around 500 scientists who work in research teams across the UK on projects to better understand how to diagnose, prevent, treat, and cure heart disease.  

Finally on a personal note having the opportunity to run the London Marathon is fulfilling a dream I have always had! The training is going to be tough, but with the continuing help and encouragement from my wonderful family and friends I know I can do it!

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