As most of my friends know I caught the running bug two years ago. Don't laugh, I am as surprised as you ! In that time I have completed half marathons and 10K races. On 22nd April I will take on what is definitely the toughest physical challenge of my life when I will compete in the 2018 London Marathon. To make the event more meaningful, I will be running to raise money for Great Ormond Street Children's Hospital.

Why GOSH? I wanted to run for a cause that meant something to me. As most of you know I have a son, Michael and a daughter, Sarah. However, as most of you will not be aware I had another daughter, Stephanie, who was born in April 1995. Unfortunately she was born with a heart condition that resulted in her spending 4 weeks of her 6 week life in Great Ormond Street, where she passed away in May 1995. During those 4 weeks I was witness to, not only, the professionalism of the fantastic team of doctors and nurses, but also the fortitude and unending optimism of the children.

It may be over 20 years ago but I have never forgotten GOSH and I know the thought of raising money for such a fantastic cause will keep me focused during the hard miles of training between now and 22nd April.

I realise that requests for sponsorship come along all too frequently but if everyone could help me raise my target of £2,000 I would be forever grateful.