Hi folks, thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page. It's about time I got off my post-baby backside and gave something back to a charity that is very close to my heart so please read on.....

On Sunday 11th March, Dave and I are taking part in the Marsden March - a 14 mile trek (4 mile strut, 8 mile slog, 2 mile stumble) through the streets of London from the Royal Marsden Chelsea to the Royal Marsden Sutton. Now, I know this is not the most epic of physical challenges nor am I facing the emotional struggles of moustache growing (no comments) but it's a start for the honed armchair athlete I am. It should take about 5 hours, weather permitting, and I'll have the added incentive of Dave shouting at me to get a wriggle on - England v France kicks off at 3!

I'm no fan of hospitals (is anyone?) but the Royal Marsden truly is an exception. I have been a patient in and out of both Chelsea & Sutton since I was diagnosed with a rare type breast cancer almost exactly 8 years ago. Now I shan’t bore you with an X-Factor style tearjerker – I am one of the lucky ones! However, after 4 operations, 4 months of daily treatment, numerous scans, biopsies, check-ups etc, etc I am somewhat of an expert on the place and very, very grateful to be cancer-free. It isn’t just the boundary breaking research and work that the Marsden do or the welcoming and warm environment (yes, in a hospital!) that they create but it’s the caring, friendly and comforting nature of the staff you meet along the way that makes things bearable. They make the best of the worst of circumstances and it’s a truly inspiring place – from the children’s ward (now that is a tearjerker) to the humbling evening I spent on my last visit sharing contraband McDonalds with a patient facing terminal illness with courage and humour.

The official blurb…….

The Royal Marsden is a world-leading cancer centre, providing the very best treatment and care for more than 40,000 cancer patients every year. It is also at the forefront of cancer research. The Royal Marsden's work influences how all cancer patients are treated and cared for, not just in its own hospitals but all over the world. The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity supports this pioneering work. Thanks to our supporters, we are able to help The Royal Marsden continue to push boundaries and raise standards of excellence. When people donate to the charity they support everyone who benefits from the work of The Royal Marsden. Scientists searching for cures. Doctors who depend on the latest treatments and technologies. And, of course, cancer patients and their families.

Anything you can donate would be wonderful and gratefully received by both Dave & I and the Royal Marsden Charity. I feel rather ashamed that it’s taken me this long to start paying back as I really do owe them so much, not least of which the chance to have our beautiful daughter Holly.

Now just one last thing, I came across this blog and it kind of stopped me in my tracks http://alrighttit.com/. Have a read – she is an amazing woman - far more eloquent and deserving than I and someone I will be proud to stand with at the starting line in Chelsea on 11th March. 

Thanks again for taking the time, much love, Kxx

UPDATE - 29/02/12 - Thank you so much for the donations so far.  To anyone reading if you need more inspiration to spare a couple of punds (or incentive for me to finish!!) then this is it..... http://www.royalmarsden.org/march/page.aspx?pid=735

Thank you xxx