So, this year is Marathon year for me! Those who know me well, know I love a challenge but this is by far the biggest I have taken on.

When I was offered a ballot place I was filled with fear (and ignored it for a couple of days), but when I was also offered a charity place with the Children's Society I felt the universe was trying to tell me something...

I am not a natural runner by any means and I know this is going to be tough! However, I'm in now; my distance in training is increasing and I will give it my best shot...

I'm running for a challenge but I also am running to show my children anything is possible with a little hard work and determination. But... I'm also running to raise funds for the Children's Society; a very worthy cause in my eyes.

I have worked with children all of my working life. For the past 14 years I have been fortunate enough to work as part of Camden Youth Justice Service. Although I don't do frontline work anymore, during my time as a Case Manager (years ago) I worked closely alongside The Children's Society to achieve the best outcomes for the children we worked with. I have seen first hand the passion, skills and expertise of the workers and what a difference they can make in the life of a child. This is why I have chosen to support and fundraise for the Children's Society.

I am under no illusion that this will be easy. I feel having a reason to run and some accountability will help me stay focused and get me through the miles.

I am lucky I do not have to fundraise for my place, but if you would like to support me in my MASSIVE challenge and raise vital funds for the Children's society then any donations are much appreciated!

Thank you!

Jen x

P.S- if you see me out training then please give me a wave. A friendly face and a smile means the world when your legs are tired and it's feeling tough!

From the Children's Society:

Across the country, young people are suffering unseen and unheard – struggling with their mental health, living in poverty, and in danger from exploitation and abuse. Things cannot continue as they are.

At The Children’s Society, we know a brighter future is possible. Every child needs the care and protection of adults, and teenagers are still children. Without the help of those around them – their parents, carers, teachers – young people can’t access the support they need.

That’s why we’ve been working for more than 140 years to protect every childhood. We make sure young people can access vital support when they need it most and campaign for a world where every child can grow up safe, happy, and hopeful.

Every day, we see the incredible difference the right support can make. Now, it’s time for all of us to step up, speak out, and stand alongside young people. Mile by mile together we can build a society for all children: a society where children can thrive, not just survive.