Last year I ran the London Marathon in aid of 'The Christie' to support my good friend and partner in long runs Neil. We were humbled by the support we received and raised a total of £3440.

This year we're taking on a different challenge and running the Manchester Marathon and hoping to gain even more team members and maybe even raise more money than last year.

It'll be an even bigger challenge for me this year, as injury has prevented me from training for this one! But for me the cause is too important to back down.

You can see more about why we've chosen The Christie by reading Neil's story below.

We're focussing on 'The Christie' charity this year as its the Hospital which has been keeping my sister alive for the last 14mths and provides amazing world leading cancer care for many others, its also based in Manchester.

For me I'm raising money on a personal note, the good news is my sister is still alive and fighting AML Leukaemia, having undergone numerous treatments over the last year. Luckily we've had some great times together in between and at times during treatment. She is fighting everyday and we know she can beat this illness. While I write she is an inpatient at The Christy undergoing IV chemotherapy which will be followed by a biopsy and then most probably a bone marrow transplant which, fingers crossed, will leave her Leukaemia free.

Throughout this The Christy has provided top notch treatment and allowed her to live her life to the fullest which is amazing considering the aggressive nature of the cancer.

Please support us and The Christy to help them provide the best care and best quality of life for those suffering from the effects of cancer.