Those who know me well will know I have always wanted to run a marathon but I never thought I had it in me.

Two weeks ago a friend asked me to accompany her on a training run as she prepared for the London Marathon.  Thinking I'd be home after 10k, I put on my trainers and off we went.  17 miles later I was still full of energy and realised maybe, just maybe, a marathon was possible.  Full of adrenalin I went home and attempted to bag a charity place for London 2023, only to find entries had closed two weeks earlier!

Determined and refusing to give up, I searched the internet, hoping for a small miracle that would take me to London.

Someone was looking over me as I replied to a random Facebook post from a lady linked to Soft UK....they needed a late entry runner for London!  Not even thinking about my story to help me get the place, I sent an email almost begging for the spot - my boys cringed when I read it to them.

Fast forward 48 hours, my honest paid off, my entry was accepted and I am so excited to be running in just over 2 weeks on behalf of this wonderful charity.

Soft UK provide invaluable support to anyone who's pregnancy or child is affected by Edward's syndrome (also called Trisomy 18) or Patau’s syndrome (also called Trisomy 13).  Having recently featured as a storyline in Eastenders, I feel honoured to be able to support this wonderful charity, not only through asking for donations, but also by raising awareness of Trisomy conditions.

Run solely by volunteers, most of whom have a link with Trisomy within their own families, Soft UK are there to provide support and information to those affected at any stage of their journey.  Any money raised will be used to fund much needed family days and regional events, allowing those affected to come together, share their experiences and make lifelong friends as well as helping to fund the support line.

I've joined the Soft UK Facebook page to really understand how this amazing charity can be a lifeline to those in need and every day I am thankful for our two healthy boys.  No parent or family member should ever have to go through something like this without support.  I know the world is a crazy place right now but any donations to help get me round the marathon route and support those affected by Trisomy would be much appreciated xx