In March this year, I will be running the Marathon des Sables (“the toughest foot race on earth”) in aid of SDBTT: The Luke Frost Brain Tumour Research Fund.

The event covers 243km/151 miles, (one stage being 50 miles long) run over 7 days - equivalent to 6 regular marathons back to back. In addition to that, I will have to carry everything that I need (food, clothes, medical kit, sleeping bag etc), apart from a tent, for the 7 days on my back in a rucksack which can weigh up to 15kgs. Water is rationed and handed out at each checkpoint. I will have to prepare all my own food throughout the race and will experience mid-day temperatures of up to 120°F, running or walking on uneven rocky, stony ground as well as 15 - 20% of the distance being in sand dunes. There are time limits for each stage and if these are exceeded you are out of the race. Mental stamina probably constitutes at least 50% of whether we will complete the distance or not, but your sponsorship will be a great help with motivation at very tough times.

Luke’s charity was set up in 1997 when Luke was just 9 years old. Despite two operations and radiotherapy, Luke very sadly died 18 months later. Brain tumours are the commonest cause of death due to cancer in childhood. Once Luke’s parents learned more about brain tumours, the various types, and how difficult they are to treat with already established cancer treatments they realised with startling clarity that the only way children like Luke stood any chance in surviving this dreadful cancer was by supporting research projects looking for a cure. Luke and I grew up in the same village, went to the same school, and attended the local church together. I grew up knowing Luke’s family very well, and would like to contribute to the excellent work of the charity set up in memory of this very special young boy to save others from experiencing such a tragic loss.

Please give as generously as you can to support Luke’s charity.  

Thank you.