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Just in case you have not heard of the Bravehearts of the North East!

The charity was setup in 1989 in recognition of a young 11 year old girl from the North East called Joanne Gillespie.She endured 2 major operations and fought back from a reccuring brain tumour.

During her fight Joanne wrote a diary about her recovery which she had published, to try and help other children and their families fighting serious illness or handicap. Joanne was awarded with not only a Children of Courage award but also a North East Personality award in 1989. Sadly Joanne lost her fight !

Joanne was the inspiration, and the charity was set up in her honour to recognise other children aged 5-15, who are nominated by either nursing staff, friends or family for their incredible bravery and courage in fighting illness and adversity. 

Some of you may know that my partner, Jim has been a trustee for the Bravehearts of the North East for the last 12 years. Since we met, 8 years ago I have always declined the opportunity to help out at the annual award ceremony held at St.James Park, for the "Bravehearts" and their families.Fearing that I would be unable to contain my emotions in front of the children and their families and be of no use to anyone!

When Jim told me he had entered us both for the Great North run, to raise donations for the Bravehearts of the North East, I immediatley accepted the challenge and bought a new pair of trainers the next day! This in some way I hope will make up for not feeling able to support the charity on the day of the award ceremony!

I may not be able to complete the run in supersonic time but we have both been out training and intend to complete every mile!

Writing this story has made me think, and work allowing I will make sure I am at St. James Park on the day of the award ceremony in December so I can see for myself how our donations are used! I will keep in touch and let you know.

Thank You !