Hello!

Last April, while watching the 2024 London Marathon, I decided to enter the ballot for the 2025 event. I didn't think about it again until I received an email a few months later telling me that I had been given a place. After an initial panic, I've decided to embrace the situation and give it a go, because this probably isn't an opportunity that will come my way again. Whether this is brave or stupid is still to be decided. I'm now deep into the process of training for my first ever marathon - it's a very cool and humbling experience, and I absolutely can't wait for it be over!

I have decided to run this marathon in memory of my Aunty, Paula, who fought an extremely brave battle against cancer but who sadly died in March 2024. Her story didn't end the way we wanted it to, but myself and many others were inspired by how positive she remained, despite dealing with such an awful illness.

My Uncle Andrew, Paula's husband, has told me that they received some brilliant support from Macmillan while she was ill, so I am trying to raise a little bit of money to support this great cause in the hope that others dealing with cancer are able to access the advice and support they need. I'm sure that whatever endurance I will have to find to run 26 miles will be nothing compared to what it takes to deal with cancer. If you can spare a few quid it will definitely be going to an excellent cause and will help someone going through a massively difficult experience. Less importantly, it will also spur me on during the many miserable Saturday morning runs and after work gym sessions, and motivate me to get to the finish line. Words of encouragement are also gratefully accepted, and there's an open invitation to join me in the pub after the race is done!

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Thanks for supporting my fundraising. Macmillan gives people with cancer everything they’ve got. If you’re diagnosed, your worries are Macmillan’s worries. Macmillan’s doing whatever it takes. But without your help, Macmillan can’t support everyone who needs them.

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