This isn't just a marathon for me. It's a challenge to myself, to step outside my comfort zone, push myself further than I ever have before and, most importantly, to face my own inner critic.
Just two weeks before I take on the marathon, I'll also be celebrating three years alcohol-free. That in itself is a milestone I'm incredibly proud of. It will be three years of choosing myself, changing my life and proving that I can do hard things, even when that inner voice tells me I can't.
There's a voice in my head that often tells me I can't do things, that I'm not good enough or that I'll never manage it. Training for and completing the London Marathon is my way of challenging that voice and proving to myself that I am capable of more than I think I am.
But I'm not doing this just for me.
I'm running in memory of my mum, carrying her with me through every mile and creating a memory that I hope will make her proud.
I'm also raising money for child bereavement support, because I know how devastating it can be to lose someone you love, especially when you're young. I only wish the kind of support that child bereavement services provide today had been there for us when we needed it most.
No child should have to navigate the loss of a parent or loved one feeling alone. The support, understanding and safe space these organisations provide can make such a difference during the darkest of times.
So every mile will have a purpose: challenging myself, facing my inner critic, celebrating how far I've come, honouring Mum and helping support children and families through bereavement.
