So, rather impulsively, I have decided to run a 10K. On the day I will be running for Macmillan Cancer Support. This is an amazing charity that is very dear to me and my family. Here's a bit about certain family members who we have lost to cancer.

My granddad, Keith, is someone I don't remember too well as he passed when I was 4, due to cancer. Macmillan was able to support him and his family when he fell ill. Below is a word from my Mum about how Macmillan supported her Dad.

My Dad sadly died at the age of 62, he was very fit, rarely drank and a life long non smoker, cancer is indiscriminate. We were lucky that my stepmother, Pam, was able to keep him at home with the support of the wonderful Macmillan nurses. During a very sad and difficult time these nurses kept us all going, not only taking care of Dad's medical needs but equally importantly supporting all of his family. They are truly a tribute to their profession and I hope that you will all give willingly to support this worthy cause.

My auntie, Linda, also passed away from cancer. I remember visiting her when I was younger and how kind and caring she always was. Unfortunately she didn't receive support from Macmillan. My Dad has written a piece about his sister.

Linda was a mother of two young children. For over a year, her GP had not recognised her breast cancer until it was well advanced. Linda tried to be strong but had to struggle on alone. She hadn't realised that Macmillan could have helped her in so many ways, including her rights at work - where she had to deal with a far from understanding boss. Even in her final weeks of life, Linda was taking the bus to and from her chemo sessions.  Macmillan could have helped with transport costs and other financial burdens if only she had known. They could also have advised her and her family at a very difficult and emotional time. Patients and their families often find it hard living with cancer and avoid difficult questions around dying, which leaves sufferers isolated and scared about what is to come. I wish Linda had had Macmillan by her side to help her through each step of her final journey.

I am also running in memory of my step-mum's, parents Beate and Brian who both passed from cancer. I was fortunate enough to meet them a handful of times and always loved to see them. I will always remember Brian's endless stories of the world. I asked Jeany (my step-mum) to write a paragraph about how Macmillan provided support.

My mother died 6 weeks after her stomach cancer diagnosis leaving my dad in turmoil after 50 years of marriage.  Macmillan stepped in and helped him with paying some expenses at a time when he was really vulnerable and in shock. Sadly last year my dad lost his own battle with the disease. In his final weeks he was nursed at home by 2 of my sisters. Again Macmillan stepped in, providing a rapid home assessment of his needs when his health went into fast decline. Equipment to keep him comfortable and enabling him to remain at home, was delivered within 2 days. He died at home surrounded by love and care and we will be forever grateful that this was made possible.

I also thought I would write a little something about what Macmillan does and how your donations can help. It's estimated that, in 2017, Macmillan provided personal, high-impact support to 1.6 million people, this rises to 6.5 million when online support and information resources are included. Your money helps to ensure that this number can grow and everyone who suffers from cancer can receive support. £9 pays for 25 copies of The Cancer Guide, which provides vital information to those who have been recently diagnosed. £57 helps to run the 'Ask the Expert' section on the Macmillan website for an hour. £107 pays for a Macmillan nurse for half a day who can provide medical, practical and emotional support. The list goes on, and every penny counts!

So please, give generously, and help in any way you can! Whether it's a donation or a message of support, it is gratefully received!