Hello! I'm running the London Marathon for Bowel Research UK.

At the time of writing, four of my friends, and friends-of-friends, have been diagnosed with bowel cancer and other serious bowel issues. These are people in their thirties and forties, parents of young children, people who are funny, kind, lively and loved.

I turn 40, a month before the Marathon takes place. I've never done this before. I'm a scared, slow, awkward runner, but I love running. I love it because I've made total peace with the fact that I'll never be good at it. In every other area of my life, I'm a neurotic, anxious perfectionist. But when I run, I don't mind being the worst one. I'm just full of joy and gratitude because I get to move my body. I get to do something that I grew up believing was impossible for me.

So - I wanted to commemorate the Big Birthday by setting myself a great big scary challenge. And it's my honour to run for Bowel Research UK, and for M, H, L and J - because if we're able to fund and support more research, hopefully this terrifying situation will get better. We have the power to change this, a fiver at a time.

I'd be so grateful if you were able to sponsor me - no donation too small! I'm also going to be doing all sorts of events, challenges and fun things along the way. Watch this space!

Love

Daisy X