So, it's been about a year since I last found myself writing one of these. This one is a little different, however. One reason being I didn't sign up to this race in a pub, and second, this is hands down going to be one of the biggest challenges of my life. 

Those of you who know me are most certainly aware that I am not a runner, and if I'm being honest I even get out of breath walking up a flight of stairs. Why did she sign up, I hear you asking. Well, a few family members of mine have run the marathon, and nothing quite beats the feeling that encompasses you on race day. But, what I should've worked out is that that feeling is probably quite different standing on the sidelines than running 26 miles. Here we are nonetheless. It's about a month since I received the email confirming I had secured a space. After entering on a whim, I can't deny the level of fear that rushed over me. How was I going to do this? Where do I even start? Alas, a month later, here I am two weeks into a six-week run/walk programme (hilarious I know, but one step at a time). Anyway, enough about me and more about what's going to drive me to cross that finish line.

I will be running the marathon for the Throat Cancer Foundation. A cause close to my heart following my grandma's diagnosis over ten years ago. Luckily, she is living cancer-free but millions are not. I feel so determined to bring this type of cancer out of the shadows and raise awareness and funds to contribute to eventually finding a cure for this disease. Of course, any donations small or large would be so greatly appreciated, but any words of wisdom would equally be welcomed. I'm not shying away from how difficult this training process is going to be, but I couldn't be more ready. 

With that being said, one final note. I cannot apologise enough for the amount of spam you are probably going to get from me now until April next year. But, if you are left wanting more I have agreed in partnership with the foundation, to write a blog documenting my training schedule, including all of my highs, lows and cries. 

So until then, thank you so much for reading my story, and I hope to see as many of you on race day as possible. 

Lots of love, and lets do this!