I have always loved watching the London Marathon and have often thought what an amazing experience it would be to be a part of it. The only problem was I couldn't run! Last year I joined a running club and literally started from running for two minutes and walking for one minute. I am by no means a natural athlete but with the support of a fanatstic club and coach I have recently run a half marathon. I found it really hard to fit the training on for it and to motivate myself to train but I felt a huge sense of satisfaction in completing it. So I thought if I am every going to do the London Marathon there will never be a better time than now. Since I got my place I have been in complete denial about it and how hard it's actually going to be! Make no mistake this is a huge challenge for me. I am running to raise money for Demelza, a local hospice who support children and their families with life limiting and terminal illnesses. I visited Demelza to write about them a few years ago and it was such a happy and positive place despite the terribly difficult work it has to do. I am lucky enough to have three healthy children and I can't begin to imagine the issues parents that use their services have to face so if I can raise a little bit of money to make their lives a little bit easier then that would be just great. Please sponsor me if you can - any size of donation will be hugely appreciated.

Bringing up children and raising a healthy, happy family is hard work at the best of times. When a child is born with or develops a terminal condition, the emotional and physical impact affects the whole family and can be overwhelming. At Demelza, we focus on supporting each child, young person and family we work with to achieve the best possible life. As specialists in care for young people and family support, we will continue to use our outstanding knowledge, experience and expertise to help families enjoy their lives together.