Last week my wonderful Nan lost her battle with cancer. Watching someone you love fade away makes you feel so impotent and powerless - there is very little you can do but sit by their side, waiting for them to draw their last breath and leave you. However, in the wake of her passing I have reflected and realised that there is something small that I can do: I can help raise money for Cancer Research UK by doing something that will certainly not involve any sitting by!

For those of you who have known me for a while, you will be well aware that sport was never my friend. I was the girl at school who hid in the woods during cross country or who feigned an injury to get out of PE. I have only recently started attempting to jog (roughly translated to plodding or trudging) and so taking on a 10k run seems unfathomable at the moment. But... I am determined to put myself through it and take on this beast of a challenge in aid of raising some cash for Cancer Research UK.

I would be hugely grateful if you could spare a thought for my poor old knees... and some pennies to support me as I face my high school fears in memory of my fabulous Nan.

Thank you friends. Kate.x

Cancer is happening right now, which is why I'm taking part in a Race for Life 10k to raise money and save lives.

1 in 2 people will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime. Every single pound you donate makes a difference to Cancer Research UK’s groundbreaking work, so please sponsor me now.