For the last four years I have participated in the Leeds 10K but this year, my daughter, Alexandra joins me for what will be a very enjoyable and emotional occasion. It takes place on the morning of Sunday 8th July 2012 and we are currently in vigorous training.

Alexandra and I have selected to raise money for leukaemia and lymphoma research, which is the only UK charity solely dedicated to research into blood cancers, including leukaemia, lymphoma and myeloma.

The life-saving research is focused on finding causes, improving diagnosis and treatments, and running groundbreaking clinical trials for all blood cancer patients, no matter how young or old. We all know someone who has been stricken with some form of cancer - sometimes curable, often not. Research has to continue to find their root causes and to establish a means of reducing the numbers affected every minute of every day. As a blood donor, it seemed fitting this year to focus on blood cancers.

We are the lucky ones! We have had a lot of fun training - we've laughed; we've shared blister moments; we've captured nature at its best, and most of all we have spent quality time together, which we really value.

So no matter how small your pledge, every little counts!

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer. So it’s the most efficient way to donate - I raise more, whilst saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

Please dig deep and donate now. Or simply come along and support everyone taking part on the route!

Thank you from both of us.

ACX2