A few years ago, I lost my father to a heart attack, following almost a decade of treatment and surgeries for heart problems. It was the worst time of my life. Since then his brother has passed away from a similar issue. Both of them benefited either directly or indirectly from the work the BHF does. Dad's life was extended considerably from the research that is done and he saw four of his grandchildren grow from babies to older boys - my then youngest was a baby when Dad had his first open heart surgery and nine when he died. It would have been awesome if he could have met my now youngest, his fifth grandson, but he bears Dad's middle name in his memory.

Throughout my fundraising, I have become more aware of the work done by the BHF. Other people have donated and told me the story of how the charity has helped them. I’ve struck up conversations on runs and rides with people and they have also told me of their experiences.

This year, I am pushing the bar higher and further. I have a place in the London Marathon at the end of April, which will be the furthest I have ever run in my life. It will also be the furthest I will ever run. Ever! This comes from someone who in December 2014 took up the challenge to run 2.5km as part of a triathlon in summer 2015. That first day of training I ran 40m and was knackered from the effort.

I also have a place in that same triathlon this year, in  Henley in July, as this was the event Dad said I should enter so it remains dear to my heart.

If all goes well, I will ditch the running shoes and take part in Swim the Serpentine in September which will give me entry into the London Classics Hall of Fame.

Please give as much as you can when you can. Your donation won't bring anyone back but it might just let someone live longer, so they too can see their grandchildren grow.

For more information on the work of the BHF please visit: https://www.bhf.org.uk/