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Since having had children and dogs I have always enjoyed running as a means of trying to stay fit as well as giving me my own head space. Every year I have watched the thousands pounding the streets of London on television on their personal missions to complete the Marathon and I have often questioned whether I might ever be able to complete it. As the years have gone by I realised that if I didn't do it soon it would be one of my lifes "what if's". So when a friend asked me last year if I wanted to sign up, I rather quickly and rashly agreed.

I approached the charity Shooting Star Chase to ask whether I might run for them. This charity provides care services to life limited children and their families at home, in the community and at their two hospices Christopher's in Guildford and Shooting Star House in Hampton. These services include respite care, symptom management and end of life care. A wide range of therapy and bereavement counselling services are also provided for children and family members. Having agreed that I could run for them  I visited Christopher's earlier this year. During my visit I met some inspirational people including one father of a family currently being supported by the hospice. Having run 5 marathons in recent years he was able to give some marathon top tips and strength building exercises. It was apparent that the services provided by this facility mean a huge amount to the families that are supported by it as they live through such difficult times with their children.

So, my training began around Christmas and I have been steadily increasing my runs (from a base of 5/6 miles) completing the Brighton and Royal Palaces half marathons earlier this year. I have found the long training runs testing especially in the rain and cold of these winter months. The fun and enjoyment in relaxed running over the hills of our local area has been replaced by longer, flatter, gritty runs and I have three black toenails and an iffy ankle to prove it! I have also become weirdly knowlegable about Garmin watches, Strava, Specialised trainers (for pronation), pace times and gel/supplements??!! Oh the Glamour!

It would really help me to get through the 26.2 mile run on the 22nd April knowing that I was able to make some difference in helping the families of Shooting Star Chase to make every moment count for them. So if you are able to support me in this quest, financial or otherwise, I would be so appreciative.

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.