On the 7th September, as part of my 40th birthday milestone, l I will be taking part in the Great North Run and raising funds for Melanie’s Miles of Hope in memory of my wonderful friend Melanie Toye.

For anyone who didn’t have the joy of meeting or knowing Mel, she was one of those rare people who lit up every room she walked into, not just with her smile, but with her energy and optimism. Her laugh and love for life was infectious.

At just 40 Mel was diagnosed with breast cancer and last October her incredible journey was cut short. But during her cancer journey she turned her diagnosis into something positive creating Melanie’s Mile of Hope, a charity dedicated to supporting people and families facing a cancer diagnosis.

She loved running, it was her therapy, her joy, and, in time, her way of giving back. Even in the toughest of times, she found strength in putting one foot in front of the other and her vision for her charity was simple but powerful: to offer practical help, emotional comfort, and a sense of hope. She believed in leaving the world a little brighter than she found it and through Melanie’s Miles of Hope her legacy continues to live on.

So, for anyone asking what my plans are to celebrate turning 40, I would just like to help carry her legacy forward and to try and raise as much as possible so that her charity can continue to help provide support, care, and encouragement to those who need it most.

Every donation is hugely appreciated and I hope to be able to do her proud.