I've have had it on my bucket list and even run half the distance a couple of times (not in one go) - but this year I have decided to have a shot at the big one. I'm taking part in the Blackmores Sydney Running Festival 2014, and am competing in the Marathon on Sunday 21st September. 

I think I have done enough training.... so I have hauled my arse around the various parks and roads of Bondi, pretty consistently for the best part of this year. I've had a couple of inevitable injuries (some of which I won't share with you), but with about 1 month, 17 days and 14 hours to go (as I write),  I feel as confident as I think you can when embarking on something like this.

But let's be honest bucket list schmucket list - I do want to do what I can to give back. It sounds very cheesy, but I have a lot to give back having had a very close call..... In 2005 I was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumour and due to the amazing work of Charlie Teo and his team of surgeons I am still here to tell the story and now finally run a marathon!

Brain tumors are the leading cause of solid tumor cancer death in children under the age of 20. They are the second leading cause of cancer death in male adults ages 20-29. In its malignant form it is almost 100% fatal. Around 1600 people a year will be diagnosed with brain cancer in Australia, approximately 1200 will pass away. Only 14% of patients make it to 10 years post diagnosis, and, with some types of tumour this falls dramatically. It is a bloody awful disease.

Cure Brain Cancer Foundation is very close to my heart as it was founded by Charlie Teo. Today it is the largest dedicated fundraiser for brain cancer research in Australia. Partnering with the research community, they are steering the national agenda for brain cancer research. Their mission is to accelerate new treatments to brain cancer patients and increase five-year survival to 50% within 10 years.

So, come 21 September, I’m going to be sweating it out and doing my best to complete a gruelling course over the Harbour Bridge, around Sydney's CBD and finishing at the Opera House steps... 

Whatever you can do to help me reach my target and raise much needed funds for this amazing cause I really appreciate it. In advance I thank you for your support and helping to make a difference.

Bolts