Here I was, excited to have been accepted by the British Heart Foundation to represent them running in the London Marathon 2020 and then Covid-19 happened. Marathon cancelled! All that feeling of delight and excitement got replaced with anxiety and nerves. Nevertheless, the challenge is still on and I’m glad to say that my marathon has been reallocated to the year 2022. 

So why did I put myself in this position? My Dad suffered several heart attacks and in the end he died of an enlarged heart at a very young age. It may have been 10 years ago now but we were so close. I can honestly say not a single day goes by when I don’t picture him in my mind. It drives me to do this crazy thing and I hope that the energy and sheer slog of training will help me feel I have done something worthwhile in his memory and at the same time raise good money to help others avoid or beat heart disease with properly directed treatment.

Well those who know me well will understand that running at all is not a natural pastime for me and long distance running is just off the dial ! The 26.2 mile (42.2 km) Marathon itself I’m sure will be exciting with the emotion on the day but the roughly 375 miles (603.5 km) of winter training (Now Summer training!) could be at best diabolical and at worst excruciating !

Anyway it’s actually one to tick off my bucket list and I’m determined to do it. I know I will get lots of support and I’m sure those closest to me will forgive my muddy trainers, early morning starts and general long absences when I’m running.

It will all be hugely worthwhile if I can raise enough money to make even a small difference and I thank everyone who reads this for whatever support they feel they can give, whether with donations or cheering me on the day or even both !