Thanks for coming to my JustGiving page. I have the amazing opportunity to run the 26.2 mile London Marathon 28th April 2019 to raise money for an incredible charity – Rainbows Childrens Hospice. I’m taking this opportunity to run a marathon for all those who will never have the chance to experience an event like the London Marathon. And because of the incredible work Rainbows do making short lives not just bearable, but fun and exciting for life limited children and young people. They helped my colleague Jenny’s grandson when he had a rare type of spinal cancer and he passed away aged just 10 years old, no one should have to go through that, but if they did they would want the help of Rainbows. Not only for the way they look after the children but for the families involved too.

This year is a massive year for me personally, as it marks 5 years cancer free. At the beginning of 2014 I was diagnosed with and treated for cancer of the throat and neck. On the 28th April 2014 I was right in the middle of going through chemotherapy and radiotherapy after surgery to try and remove cancer from my throat and lymph-nodes. In December 2014 I was given the all clear, but life will never be quite the same as before 2014 for me and my family. I’m grateful to be given this opportunity to do something amazing.

In 2015 I knew that somethings in my life had to change and I gave up the booze and junk food, I also started running by doing the NHS Couch to 5k app. It was incredibly difficult and I couldn’t run for longer than 60 seconds at the start without stopping coughing and feeling like my lungs would explode. Persevering to complete the 5K I then signed up for a 10km race in June and the rest as they say is history. I have run half marathons before including the Great North Run at 13.1 miles, the marathon is double the distance – wish me luck!

Rainbows rely on donations from people like me and you to keep helping children and their families, so please dig deep and I’ll do the hard work running – all you have to do is put your hand in your pocket or purse and give generously. Your support in helping me reach my target and giving to help the children who will never get the same chances we have is greatly appreciated.

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. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity