I’m thrilled (and slightly terrified!) to share that I’ve secured a place in the London Marathon through the public ballot — and this year, I’ve got a bone to pick with it! I last ran London back in 2011, and ever since, I’ve felt there was unfinished business. Now, while my body is still (just about!) young and fit enough, it’s time to go again — and this time, I’m aiming for a personal best.

But more important than the race itself is the opportunity to make a difference. Having a ballot place means I can raise money for causes close to my heart. After a lot of thought, I’ve decided to split whatever I raise three ways between causes I feel strongly about.

1. Children’s Mental Health

I’ve lived with anxiety my whole life, and now, as a parent, I’m seeing some of those same traits in my son. Supporting children’s mental health has become incredibly personal to me. I’ve chosen to support HeadsUP Mental Health Awareness CIC, a fantastic local organisation that provides mental-health education, workshops, and early support for children, young people, and families across Devon.

2. Cancer Care at Musgrove, Taunton

My dear friend Annie has been bravely fighting breast cancer with incredible strength and courage. She has now finished a long stint of chemotherapy and undergone surgery — with, I’m so pleased to say, fantastic results. I’m delighted to share that, after completing her course of radiotherapy, Annie got to ring that bell loud and proud and is now breast cancer-free! However, there is still a long road ahead as Annie tackles another cancer in her abdomen - I wouldn’t wish this on anyone and it is heat-breaking to watch my dear, brave friend endure this.

I’m raising funds for Love Musgrove, the charity supporting Musgrove Park Hospital and its Beacon Centre, in recognition of the outstanding care they’ve provided. Annie has nothing but praise for the wonderful staff who supported her throughout her treatment and made such a difference in her journey.

3. A Little Treat for Annie’s Family

As if the diagnosis wasn’t hard enough, Annie’s life insurance sadly didn’t cover breast cancer due to family history, adding financial pressure to an already impossible situation. Knowing the Berry family, they’ll never ask for help — they’re the first to offer support to others and the last to accept it themselves. After all they’ve been through, they truly deserve a little happiness and something to look forward to. A portion of what we raise will go towards giving them a special day or short getaway — a moment to pause, smile, and begin rebuilding after such a tough journey.

This run is deeply personal — from my own experience with anxiety, to supporting Annie, and running in memory of my beautiful dog Lani, who I recently lost and who was always by my side. Every donation, no matter how small, truly means the world and will help keep me going through the training.

Thank you so much for your support ❤️

Here goes…