Thanks for taking the time to visit our JustGiving page.

6 years ago we lost our brother/ twin brother Al to a rare primary bone cancer called Osteosarcoma aged 16. He was a keen cross country runner and rugby player... But had these hobbies taken from him when he had major surgery to remove his tumours...

We were determined to make his memory live on by completing annual charity runs- we started with a 5k, then 10k's, then half marathons. This is our grand finale of fundraising (although I have been told there is no way we will only do one marathon!!!).

Even before Al's tragic journey I had already set myself the challenge of the Virgin London marathon. One day at school (aged 16) I decided I would complete the marathon in my 26th year.

1. 26 miles for 26 years.

2. 10 years to train.

3. I would be nearly 30 so 'mature' enough to train.

4. Not too old that my knees wouldn't cope :S

The plan was always to do it with my brothers. Al actually ended up doing the Virgin Mini London Marathon putting me and Pat to shame so it's about time we played our part! I will be running along side Pat every step of the way but we know Al will be there in spirit...

It has been mighty difficult motivating ourselves to go running in the winter wind and rain... but the sheer grit and determination Al showed during his gruelling treatment inspires us to keep going.

Mum made sure our Christmas stockings were full of high vis yellow hats, ear muffs, face buffs, flashing lights, long sleeved skins, good trainers, blister prevention socks and flashing ankle/ wrist straps. A couple of planes have almost diverted from Heathrow into my front room!!!!

We have relied on support from our fabulous friends and family for every run we have entered- mum driving miles to scream and blow hooters, grandmas making post run flapjack, Craig handing out jelly babies, family friends in South Shields providing comfortable beds and very generous donations ... 

Please donate if you feel able. And for those living in London come and watch!!

London marathon 2014- BRING IT ON!

F & P xxx