I am taking part in the Virgin London Marathon 2016 to raise money and awareness for the BRCA 1 gene.

Earlier this year myself, my sister and my father were informed we suffered from the BRCA 1 gene abnormality, meaning we have increased risks of developing breast, ovarian (in women) and prostate cancer (in men) in comparison to the general population.

I feel that this issue is not very well known as before the diagnosis we had not heard of the gene and it's effects.
I feel that my family is very lucky to have the knowledge we do about the gene, as we can now make certain lifestyle choices to help decrease our chances of developing such cancers. However, there are many people out there who have the gene who do not know about it and are not able to do things to help themselves. I feel it is very important to raise awareness and fund further research into the genetic abnormality so that more people can be diagnosed and help given to them.

I would be very grateful if you could sponsor me - no matter how little the amount. It is all going to a very good cause.

Wish me luck!

Joe