Hello all

I have never done this before and Mum, please don't cry too much when you read this, but I have gone mad and am undertaking 2 big physical challenges in the next year: firstly I am doing the Great South Run in October, which may not be a Marathon but it's a big deal to me (10 miles) and secondly I have gone crazed and just booked to walk up Kilimanjaro at the end of February 2010. I am terrified but very, very excited. I now know that I'm really going have to step the fitness levels up seriously - and most of you know if I do something I like to try and do it well so I will be putting a great deal of effort in - and hey, it may even lead to a smaller behind in the process!

As the run and KMJ will be the biggest physical challenges that I have ever undertaken I have decided to dedicate both efforts to my Dad, Stephen Butcher - 2010 will mark the tenth anniversary of his death. As such, I am raising money for Headway, the charity set up to give help and support to people and families affected by brain injury.

For those of you who don't know, my dad suffered a brain haemorrhage when I was  just 1, which left him with severe brain damage. I really don't know, to this day, how my Mum coped with three small children and effectively "loosing" the man she loved. Over the years dad had numerous strokes which left him severaly physically handicapped. However he was always just my dad, how I'd always known him, and the most loving person you could imagine. I miss him every day.

This was years ago now and charities like Headway were only just in their infancy and help and support was not widely available. I would be so grateful if you would donate today, to help me raise as much money as possible (I know my target's ambitious!) to help families out there who are going through a similar experience, to get the best help and support possible!

I should also add that I am paying for the whole Kilimanjaro trip myself so every single penny you donate will go direct to Headway! Non of this charity subsidised trip nonsense! (I know I shouldn't say that as a fundraiser!).

Thank you thank you thank you!

Photo of Dad to follow......

Holly xxxxxxxxxx