At the end of last year, I struggled to come to terms with the shock and devastating news that Philip Hawthorne, a close family member, was diagnosed with Bowel Cancer, tragically he died within two weeks at the age of 36. 

Philip was a true example of a life lived for the service of others, he had such an amazing way with kids, a great source of inspiration to my children, affectionally known as "Silly Philip". 

Struck with grief, since the news, I was heartbroken, thoughts about his wife, his boy, his unborn child, his family, his friends, I found it overwhelming and incredibly difficult to put anything into words. 

I was deeply moved to do something as we can all relate to knowing someone who maybe affected by cancer in some shape or form. The more research that is done the better chance of treatments can improve survival rates.

A bunch of us (Philips Plodders) have decided to fundraise and raise awareness for Bowel Cancer by taking part in the Great Glasgow Half Marathon 2^nd Oct 2022.

What does that mean for me? As a beginner, who is slightly overweight, unfit etc. I started working on a 12-week training plan, I recently completed my first ever 8-mile run! 

The whole process has been a mindset shift to lean into "if others have done it, why not you?" as I continue my pursuit, I am determined to improve my fitness beyond the half marathon.

I have a target or £500 running a half marathon (13 miles) for a good cause like this as it means something to someone out there, will you join me in support by donating?