Hello, I'm Ceri and it's always been an aspiration of mine to run the London Marathon and this year I have the privilege to do so. The training has been tough but knowing I can help two incredibly important causes that are close to my heart has helped endlessly. Every step I take will be in support of these charities, both of which are making a real difference in people’s lives. Your support means the world to me, and I hope you’ll join me in making a positive impact to these causes.

One of the charities I’m supporting is ‘The Family Breakfast’, a local initiative close to my heart, as my wonderful Mum is involved with this incredible project. ‘The Family Breakfast’ operates every Saturday from the Church Hall in Pyle, South Wales, providing a warm and welcoming space for anyone in need. They offer a free breakfast, a hearty soup and sandwich lunch, and delicious homemade cakes with tea and coffee. People in the local community can also access a pantry, which helps them make it through the week by providing essential goods. This amazing scheme operates on a "take what you need, donate if you can" basis.

Each Saturday, around 80 people, including the homeless, the elderly, socially isolated individuals, and struggling families, come together to share a meal and a moment of warmth. Volunteers work tirelessly, giving up hours of their time every week to make breakfasts using just some limited equipment and to source pantry stock from local supermarkets. This charity is powered by the enthusiasm of its volunteers and the generosity of local businesses and individuals.

I’ve had the privilege of witnessing the incredible impact ‘The Family Breakfast’ has on its community firsthand, and I can honestly say it’s remarkable. The dedication and kindness shown by all involved in this charity are truly inspiring.

Funds raised through my marathon run will go directly towards helping the charity acquire much-needed equipment, enabling them to support even more people in need and continue their vital work and help ensure that this wonderful project can grow and thrive, providing essential resources for those struggling in the community.

(here's a photo of the lovely ladies who help every week)

The second charity is to support a truly incredible woman, my dear friend Tara. Tara has always been a kind, selfless, and loving person, lighting up the lives of everyone she meets. But recently, she has been faced with a devastating diagnosis that has changed her life forever.

At just 34 years old, Tara was diagnosed with Triple Negative Breast Cancer, a rare and aggressive form of invasive breast cancer. After enduring months of intensive and gruelling treatment, the unthinkable happened: she was told that her cancer had progressed to Stage 4 Metastatic Secondary Triple Negative Breast Cancer. This form of cancer is incurable, and it has shattered all of our hearts.

But Tara, being the incredible fighter that she is, refuses to let this diagnosis define her. She continues to fight, not just for herself but for those who love her and for the opportunity to keep living her life to the fullest. In the face of unimaginable adversity, Tara is pushing forward with determination, but there is a critical piece to her journey that she needs help with.

The treatment that could extend her life and improve her quality of life is costly, and it’s not something that she can afford on her own. That’s where we come in. By supporting my marathon run, you’re directly contributing to giving Tara access to vital treatments that can make a real difference in her fight.

I have known Tara for 10 years now, and I can honestly say she is one of the most remarkable people I’ve ever had the privilege of knowing. She lives life to the fullest and brings so much joy to everyone around her. It is heartbreaking to see her face this challenge, and it feels so unjust that someone so full of life is going through this. But I know that with your support, we can help her continue to fight, continue to live, and continue to be the amazing person we all know and love.

(here is beautiful Tara and I in a work Christmas party 10 years ago)

Thank you for your kindness and support for both these special causes.

Ceri xxx