Hello there!

I am attempting the 2010 London Marathon on the 25th April. I love my running and all that jazz but I have never run a full marathon before. So for me this is a massive challenge. It's bigger than a big thing from the planet Big situated in Big Galaxy. And if I pull this off perhaps I can still make the 2012 Olympic team? I'll only be 35 then - I think Steve Ovett was older so you never know.

Anyway I digress, running a marathon is dead tough and it will take a load of training. As such I need to be inspired. I have chosen a really amazing charity to support in order to push me on and get me through the damn thing. The Willow Foundation is that charity and it was set up by Arsenal legend Bob Wilson (Spurs fans don't let that put you off!).

The charity provides special one off days to those with life-threatening conditions by giving them a chance to escape the pressures of their daily routine and share quality time with family and/or friends. Every special day is of the person's choosing - it could involve fulfilling a lifelong dream or it could simply offer an opportunity to bring some much needed normality back into their lives.

To date the charity has organised and funded special days for young adults living with a wide range of serious conditions including: cancer, motor neurone disease, cystic fibrosis, Huntingdon's, organ failure and multiple sclerosis.

I know money is tight in these recession times and charity is the last thing on a lot of peoples minds. I really do believe in the good work of this charity though and want to raise as much money for them as I possibly can. If you can spare anything it would be greatly appreciated. 

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 and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer. So it’s the most efficient way to donate - I raise more, whilst saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

Cheers - and on with the training!

Marc