When I was 9, we went to London to watch my Dad run the London Marathon for Leukaemia Care in memory of his lovely Mum, my Nanny, Hilda Shaw. Dad absolutely smashed it and ran it in 3 hours 30 and ever since, I have vowed to take on the challenge and run for the same cause. (My sister then also completed it, so there was now little excuse for me). 

Leukaemia is unfortunately an illness that has affected both sides of my family, with my Auntie Jane also losing her battle with the disease at just 59 years old. 

Both my Nanny and Auntie Jane were exceptionally kind, warm hearted people that would make anyone feel welcome within seconds. Auntie Jane came to the majority of my drama shows and despite that fact I sometimes didn't have a speaking part, she made me feel like I had been the star of the show. Nanny was relentless in her generosity, be it through the endless games she would allow me to play in her living room or the pound coins she would give me in the little banking bags. Both women are sorely missed by all their family and friends.

For me, running this marathon will be the hardest thing I have ever done as I have never taken on such a physical undertaking. As I write this, in April of 2022, I have yet to run further than 10k. However, with the memory of such wonderful people alongside me, I am going to give a fair go. 

I am running for Leukaemia Care as it is a national charity dedicated to ensuring that anyone affected by blood cancer receives the right information, advice and support. Around 34,000 people are affected by blood cancer each year in the UK and they are  there to support them through their diagnosis, treatment and beyond.

I would be forever grateful if you spare whatever you can and donate to such a fantastic cause in memory of two wonderful women and the countless brilliant people that are affected everyday. 

Thank you

Alice