It has always been a dream of mine to run the London marathon, however I'm well aware of the huge challenge running a marathon presents. Years ago, I always said I would only run London either for my 40th birthday or for a charity close to my heart. As it happens, I'm doing it for both.

I had a few years off running when I had my children, then started again when my youngest was turning two. For a few years I ran solo, plodding around the village. Then I met an amazing group of people who have become some of my best friends. We run in any weather, at ungodly hours, miles and miles and we keep each other going. We talk about anything and everything and support each other through thick and thin.

Over the last two years, I've watched my close friend and running buddy go through the most horrific time, as her Mum battled this terrible disease. It is the worst way to lose someone. When her Mum passed away in March this year, I was utterly heartbroken for her and felt helpless. There is nothing you can say to make things better. But we kept running.

More recently a close family member of my own has been fighting her own battle and I am seeing first hand the devastation it causes.

We want to do something to raise money to raise awareness and ultimately work towards finding a cure. We have both ran marathons before so to up our game... we're doing two. Manchester and London a week apart from each other in April next year.

We are doing this is memory of my friends lovely Mum, and for everyone battling Alzheimers and their families.