Update after the run:

Just want to say heartfelt thanks to all who have donated and supported me. Also to those who helped with fundraising, to those who came to watch on the weekend and everyone that has sent goodwill messages. 
The run itself was life changing beyond my expectations. I learnt so much about all the people that care for and love me. I heard strangers of all colours and religions screaming my name. I felt unbelievably proud to be British and to see our capital city in all its glory. 
The last 10 miles were the toughest physical and mental challenge I have ever known. From 16 miles I felt like I couldn't take another step. At points I was saying the names of close loved ones and telling them I loved them and this was for them. I thought a lot about Anna Verrico and her courage. I also told myself that the pain and feeling that I couldn't take another step were part of the daily battle many people face. I tried to make myself smile for the crowds and hide the pain. I feel like I've been somewhere in my head from which there is no return but I feel at peace for going there.
Saying all of this I also know that 1 million people have run that race alone so none of this is unique or even special. 
So now it's done and the pain will go but what will stay are all the things I have learnt. 
I love my family, I love my friends, I love the people of our great country and I love humanity on the whole. 
I ran every single step as I said I would. I'm so very glad that I did. I was slow but what I've learnt and the pride in my children's eyes will stay forevermore.
Much love ❤

Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

Well what can I say...?? After being told in September to stop running by my doctor I ran 2 half marathons the same month. Following this it only seems logical to run the London Marathon. 

Luckily for me I only have arthritis in my toes which is really just a minor inconvenience. As I plod the miles I often remind myself of how lucky I am to have such a fulfilling life. I think of the brave people fighting a battle with cancer that they did not choose and the uncertainty they face. I find I can deal better with the sadness this brings me by reassuring myself that I'm trying to make a difference for them and their families. 

Finishing a 26.2 mile run means nothing in comparison to some of these people making the effort to take a 10m walk to gain a glimpse of the outside world and respite from the gloom of fighting their personal battle with cancer. I don't seek victory for myself but rather recognition of them. So luckily for me I have this opportunity to run London which means I can put effort into training to run the distance and through the generosity of your charity and good will help people less fortunate.

Lastly I hope my children can one day truly understand the gesture I am trying to make. I have learnt so much through this journey and hopefully can reflect and explain some of this to them in years to come. If not then they will know I did this and it was as much for them as any other reason.

I've done a few charity events now - the Great North run 3 times, the Anna Verrico Half Marathon in memory of dear Anna who inspired me through my early runs and remains in my thoughts daily. I even did the Dry January in 2013 and haven't touched a drop of alcohol since!!!

So London it is - this is the one I'm not sure I can do. You can help me on my way by donating. Each time a donation is made I get an email and with this comes a feeling of warmth and support. If you can only spare £1 then I'm still getting the message you are there and supporting me. 

So the distance is 26.2 miles and the target is £3000. The prize is we make a difference. I'm up for this so who is with me??????

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity. So it’s the most efficient way to donate – saving time and cutting costs for the charity.