A big set of thank yous

1 October

So many people have contributed to this crazy undertaking and I just want to say thank you to a few people before I get underway:

The runners:

My running buddy Tom is coming back from injury and hopes to be able to do the first 40k with me. My brother J (or Jon as most people know him) is also hoping to do the first marathon with me, maybe more, and then the last marathon as well. So I shouldn't have to do too much on my own. Ian was planning on doing the first 20k but is injured - and we're still trying to work out how to involve Helen - thank you to all of you for your enthusiasm and willingness to get involved!

Cheerleaders:

Hopefully my Aunt and Uncle (Jan and Kev) will be on the course at Hollingbourne, slightly over the half way point. I know Brian, Suzanne, Ave and Gav also will be around if they can. Our friends Adam and Ximena are planning to be down in Hythe to meet me, as are the team from the charities I'm raising for - thank you Dudley! My other brother Tom and his fiancée Katie will be with my Mum down in Hythe ready to meet me, as will Emma, J's other half.

Support crew:

My wife Claire, whilst occasionally despairing of the amount I've been running this last year has been hugely supportive of the effort, and I couldn't have done it without her. I know she's thinking of me when she sourced some reflective body paint to wear when I'm running on the roads - I think she wants me back alive! Claire and our children Leah and Owen will be helped out by our friend Jo to manage the logistical nightmare that is Saturday's clubs and sports sessions without me, before heading down to Hythe to see me over the line and maybe even run the last 500m with me! Leah said yesterday "Daddy, I think you're going to do it". That meant a lot. I'll be holding on to that. And of course my long suffering father will be getting up at 1am to drive the support vehicle all day. Thank you Dad - without you none of this would have been possible.

Donors:

The response to this effort has overwhelmed me a bit. I set out aiming to raise £2,000. So far the total stands at a little over £4,000. So many people have donated so generously I can't (and probably shouldn't) name them all here! Suzanna (Living Words)and Dudley (Hythe Dementia Awareness Forum) who have themselves been so supportive and encouraging, will be able to put the monies to great use.

My Mum:

Finally - the reason I'm doing all this. My mum. Raised us all pretty well I reckon - with Dad of course! We know what's right and wrong, how to use a knife and fork (up to a point) can ride a bike, swim, change a duvet and cook a meal. But most of all you gave and give so freely of your love and time. You've given us a solid foundation in life and let us build. That's what we truly need isn't it?

Thanks mum - this is for you.