In April, I will be competing in the Marathon des Sables, which is regarded as "the toughest foot race on Earth".

The Marathon des Sables is a six-day, 251 km ultramarathon, which is approximately the distance of six regular marathons. The longest single stage is 86 km (53 Miles) long. This multiday race is held every year in southern Morocco, in the Sahara Desert. With temperatures of over 100 degrees and competitors carrying up to 15kg of equipment and supplies, this event is not for the faint of heart. 

Back in 2005, whilst horse riding, I fell in an area that was inaccessible for the conventional ambulance. The accident caused a complete fracture of my left hip. Luckily, I was taken under the care of The Great North Air Ambulance, whose quick response time and medical professionalism ensured my full recovery from the fall. Because of them, I am able to run the race of a lifetime.

For those who are unfamiliar with the charity, The Great North Air Ambulance Service operates three helicopters, 365 days a year, across the North-East, North Yorkshire and Cumbria. The Great North Air Ambulance Service crews respond to around 1,000 call outs each year and onboard each aircraft are specialist trauma doctors and paramedics, who bring accident and emergency expertise to the scene.

Please help this great charity to provide accident assistance across the North-East by donating.