Thirty years ago, I stood watching the TV in amazement as something called the 'Ironman' triathlon beamed its way into my life.  As my dad explained that every competitor had to swim 2.4 miles, cycle 112 miles and THEN run a marathon, I was so enthralled by the physical and mental challenges involved, I knew I had to attempt it one day.

I'm not going to be fast, it won't be pretty but I'm going to give it everything I've got after spending the last 27 weeks of my life training for Ironman Maastricht. 

I'd also really like to raise awareness of, and donations for, the O'Connor Gateway Trust; this charity helps people who have had the courage and strength to face their addiction to alcohol and/or drugs and have moved into abstinent-based recovery. 

It's not easy trying to get employment with gaps in your career history and, in some cases, a criminal record but we all need a purpose to get out of bed in the morning and this charity provides work experience, paid employment and training for people in abstinent recovery to support them on their journey into the workplace. 

I'm lucky enough to see first hand how this charity makes a difference to so many people's lives so if you can spare any amount, no matter how much, I'd be very grateful if you could donate to the O'Connor Gateway Trust and, in return, I promise to give it everything I've got on the day...I'm sure I can do it...I think! but I'll give it everything and your donations will keep me going when it gets tough. Thank you :-)

And next time you fancy a treat, the Trust runs two fabulous social enterprises, Langan's Tea Rooms (Burton and Cannock), which do the best cakes and afternoon teas as well as all day breakfasts so please pay them a visit!

www.langanstearooms.co.uk

Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.