This time last year I started running again after a gap of many decades ! I don’t particularly like it but I have enjoyed the extent of my improvement. So much so that I’ve entered my first (and probably only) Half Marathon – the Great East Run in Peterborough on Sunday 9^th October.

As motivation I’ve decided to raise money for a good cause – one that is close to my Family’s heart.  In 2004 my niece Millie was born as perfect as can be. At 3 days old a red mark appeared on her jaw line and over the next 3 months it grew outwards and spread across her cheek, chin, neck & around the back of her head. The birthmark became infected and she developed a heart murmur.

Local Health officials all said that nothing could be done about the birthmark. Millie deteriorated over the first few months . My Sister Caren came across an organisation called The Birthmark Support Group (BSG). They were far more positive and provided contact details at Great Ormond St Hospital. Millie was admitted the next day - she was 2 weeks from heart failure. It’s no exaggeration to say that BSG saved Millie’s life.

Twelve years on, Millie is still having plastic surgery & laser operations. BSG continues to provide a real time support network offering advice, response to medical queries or just a shoulder to cry on.

Any support that you can give to this small, dedicated, life saving organisation would be much appreciated.

Thank you