I've discovered running in the last year but when I started I very quickly said "There's no chance I'll ever do the Great North Run, it's too far!"

Here I am. I'm doing it and thought I'd raise some money along the way.

The reason I've chosen the CLL Support Association is because last summer my Mam was diagnosed with CLL.

CLL (Chronic lymphocytic leukemia) is a type of cancer in which the bone marrow makes too many lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell).

Although my Mam doesn't need treatment right now, the few months of tests and trips to the hospital were a very scary and worrying time. I think as soon as we hear the word cancer, we all start to panic and we did.

During this stressful time, the CLLSA charity was a great support to my Mam and they help many other people having similar problems on a daily basis.

Anyone who knows my Mam will verify, she's class. Even if she does talk too much! And even if you don't know her personally, please consider making a small donation to help others who are going through the same experience.

Lastly, we will all know someone to be effected by cancer at sometime in our lifetime. If not this charity, please think about making a donation to one of the many cancer research and support charities out there.

Thanks, Ben