Unfortunately, my 2024 running season appears to be over after getting a free floating DVT. I am on aggressive blood thinners but the risk in running may push it into my lungs which will prove potentially fatal.

However, my incredible wife is stepping up and taking over my 'Run The Lights' Entry on 17 August 2024 in Blackpool. She is a wonderful support and will be there on the night to run.

Please sponsor her as she completes her first 5k fun run race with crowds supporting her.

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On 20th June, it will be my 44th birthday and my third year of living with Chronic Kidney Disease.

My 44th birthday is a significant age - back in 1995, my father went to worship Jesus forever at the age of 44, losing his fight with cancer. His battle through cancer and his willingness to keep on quietly persevering, despite his struggles, are a reminder for me to remain to be a fighter, in partnership with Jesus.

In 2021, I was in hospital as a 40 year old - an adverse reaction to a jab left me there - without a bed, sitting in a chair all day struggling to comprehend a terminal diagnosis. For a day or two, Laura and I were not sure whether 41 would be a reality after hearing doctors having concerns about doing simple procedures where I may not leave hospital. A period considering a short, unknown condition was a tough time.

However, I celebrated my 41st birthday (with a pineapple instead of a cake), recovering from a biopsy in Preston, and saying goodbye to a mission team at the Refresh Centre, after watching them do outreach in Cleveleys.

Since that day, life has changed, but with God's help, regular prayer, a strict diet and exercise regime, my kidneys have remained stable and just above the level where a transplant would be needed.

Over the year, I regularly complete runs to help managed my Chronic Kidney Disease, keep healthy, find space to pray and share a message of hope. Over the years, I've completed many runs, a half-marathon and a marathon, all with Romans 5 on my back.

The message is that suffering produces perseverance, which produces character which produces hope that will never disappoint.

As I celebrate being 44 this year, please consider the work of Refreshment UK and whether you can support that.