On Sunday 28th April 2019 I will be running 26.2 miles in the Virgin London Marathon for Leukaemia Care which is an amazing charity helping those affected by a blood cancer.
As with a lot of people, cancer and it’s many forms has unfortunately made its presence felt in my life over the years, affecting both friends and family alike, from losing a friend at school to leukaemia, to the current day with a family member currently battling it - I decided that I wanted to raise funds for Leukaemia Care, and what better and challenging way to do so than running in the London Marathon!
After 10 years of unsuccessful ballot applications, I decided to bite the bullet and buy (and secure) my place for 2019, meaning that I must raise (at least) the 2,350 target which Leaukemia Care ask for to run one of their Gold Bond places for them, so as well as relying on sponsors for help, I will also be having a few ‘side events’ taking place to help reach the target.
I received my acceptance in to the 2019 London Marathon on Wednesday 25th April (2018) but sadly the following day my dad lost his battle with cancer, again reiterating in my head the need to beat this illness and the many forms it comes in.
While running is a passion of mine and a big part of my life, marathon running isn’t, so I am under no illusion of the huge task which I face come April.
I regularly run both for fitness and competitively, specialising in 10k races where my performance is all about speed, high finishes and constantly beating my personal best, so by taking on 26.2 miles of the London Marathon I am out of my comfort zone and will have to train in a new way and find a different way of running, but I’m excited beyond words at taking part and completing it!
I know that it will be a big challenge, which with training, lifestyle and all that goes with it, right up until I’m stood on the start line will take over my life, but I need no more inspiration and reason than I already have to get me across the finish line on 28th April and help raise money for anyone affected.
This is a charity which is very close to my heart, so your support is hugely appreciated as every single donation - every single penny that is raised helps those suffering.
I will regularly post updates on my page from now until the race day comes to an end, so keep track of my progress. I can’t thank you enough for your sponsor and taking the time to read my story. So leave me a message of support, as those cold mornings training, running 20 plus miles training in the dark, wind and rain I will be reading those messages to give me a boost!
Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.
Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.