This December, I’ll be getting back into my festive attire to take part in a Santa Run through the streets of London.

I won't just be doing one Santa Run but two - on 5th and 7th December - to ensure an appropriate festive challenge. I'll commit to the theme wholeheartedly, keeping the regalia on throughout my runs - while others rush to remove theirs for fear of being hindered by their Christmas boots, hat and beard flapping about.

Why am I taking this Christmastime challenge on? To raise money for a cause close to my heart: the UK Infantile Spasms Trust (UKIST).

UKIST is a small charity which does a lot of good, providing a network of support to families with children affected by the rare seizure disorder of infantile spasms.

About 1 in 3,000 children develop infantile spasms. It typically begins in the first year of life, and these small seizures can have big consequences.

I’ve seen first-hand how much UKIST helps so know every donation will only ensure it can do even more.

UKIST's short guide to infantile spasms

Infantile spasms can often be confused at first with better-known and more benign issues like colic, delaying the swift intervention needed to get a handle on it. Children diagnosed with IS will typically endure a barrage of tests and treatment.

UKIST focuses on raising awareness (because early diagnosis is key), providing support to families, and advancing clinical research into this rare condition.

The charity helps families in so many ways, such as is offering grants to help them with equipment or therapies for their children affected by infantile spasms. It offers a lifeline to parents via its online community, and works alongside medical professionals to raise awareness of this little-known condition.

UKIST does so much to help families, so I'm glad to help support them and raise awareness of their work. Anything you can spare will be much appreciated and go towards a great cause.