Hi guys, 

I am running the London Marathon in October 2022. To bring you along on the journey, I thought I would provide some context into my running prowess. 2022 started with a bang. In an attempt to get back to pounding the pavements, I ran a slow 5K around Shadwell Basin which ended with me throwing up into a plant pot outside someone's front door... It was hardly the promising start I had hoped for. 

The most I have EVER run is 10K and that was PAINFUL so 26.2 miles is a significant step up. Given the extent of the challenge, I have started training with over 30 weeks to go, and I'm currently watching Run Fat Boy Run for inspiration. If you don't see me in Lycra or a pair of running trainers on a Tuesday, Thursday or Sunday, feel free to shout at me. 

To document my training, I have started an Instagram page @sophierunsamarathon . If you wanna see me sweaty, crying and in pain, then check it out!

I am running to raise money for the British Heart Foundation (BHF) to fund research into regenerative medicine and find cutting edge new treatments for people living with heart disease. This charity is extremely important to my family as my big brother, Mark, was born with a hole in his heart. 27 years, two major heart surgeries and two pacemakers later and he is fighting fit. He would even claim that he is able to outpace me (I’m yet to see any evidence of this). We are so grateful that this technology exists and are forever in debt to the individuals undertaking critical research and driving innovation to help keep hearts beating. 

If I haven't already convinced you to donate, some prizes are up for grabs:

• If you donate over £20, you can choose a song to go on my marathon playlist (just add a comment with your donation or message me privately). 
• If you donate over £50, you can write a short message of your choice on the hat that I will wear to run in on the day.*
• If you donate over £100, I will make you a tea or coffee whenever you ask OR cook you a fancy dinner*

*T&Cs apply: No expletives allowed. The food will be vegetarian (wooohoo) and this offer expires on 31st December 2022.

Any donations and running advice will be HUGELY appreciated. 

Thanks so much - I really am grateful for all of your support. 

Love, Sophie x