Two years ago I couldn't run for more than 30 seconds without stopping but seeing as I'm a glutton for punishment I've persevered. Since then I have experienced a heady mix of mud, sweat and tears to prepare me for my first ever half marathon.

The training has pushed me to my limits. I've been out in freezing, snowy, dark, wet and windy conditions when I would much rather have been at home sprawled on the couch in my pants watching Parks and Recreation. As a single, working mum I've had to pull in favours from friends and family to help watch Cherry so I can fit the training sessions in (thanks guys!) Most of you have had to endure me banging on about my runs endlessly on Facebook. Heck, my nipple even bled once, I've swallowed more bugs than I care to remember and I've experienced chaffing no woman should ever have to endure.

My point? It's not been easy. But compared to the challenges, pain and trauma experienced by the children and families at Bluebell Wood, my suffering is a drop in the ocean.

For those of you who aren't local - Bluebell Wood is a children's hospice in Sheffield which offers care and support to children with a shortened life expectancy and complex medical needs. Through work, I was lucky enough to spend a day there getting to know the staff and children they work with. My visit was inspirational. It is a beautiful facility which does truly great work for families going through some of the most heartbreaking experiences imaginable.

 It takes £3 million per year to run this facility and only 10% of that comes through government funding. This is why I am asking you to dig deep and help me raise money for such a deserving cause. I don't care how much or little you can offer - every little bit helps. It will only take a couple of minutes and a few clicks of a mouse pad. Please help me make a difference. 

Plus if you help me reach my target of £150 I promise not to post any more running posts on Facebook until 2016. 

Finally THANK YOU to all of you who have supported me, trained with me, helped look after Cherry, sent me playlists to run to and put up with my many mundane conversations about pavement pounding. 

You know who you are and I love you all. 

Kate Rawlings

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