Want to hear something funny? Matt Scorrar is running the London marathon. Yes, the London marathon—26.2 miles of what will be sheer willpower, questionable choices, and more chafing than any beginner should ever be exposed to. As someone whose natural habitat is the sofa, and whose spirit animal is a sloth, this is a very big deal indeed.

Earlier in the year I had the pleasure of attending and cheering on some friends running this year's London Marathon. It was totally inspiring and in a moment of madness I logged on and entered the ballot. After all, no one gets in, do they? 2 months later the application had been forgotten. Then it happened. Congratulations "YOUR IN," said the email. Less than a 1% chance I've since heard. I couldn’t believe it, I got in. I was so excited, so pleased, simply made up .. all for about 30 seconds. Then the penny dropped.  I’d not considered having to do this. I’ve not run since I was at school, I'm overweight, and over 53… Oh dear!

Training has been… educational. I’ve discovered that running is mostly negotiating with your legs and lungs (“Please don’t stop"). I’ve also learned that carbohydrates are not only allowed—they are encouraged. This alone almost makes the not drinking beer worth it - Maybe not! So, since July I've been on it... Couch to 5K. DONE, but not without injuries. Chelmsford half marathon in Oct. DONE, completed in 2h 36 mins, followed by 5 hours in A&E (I kid you not), and so the dance between training and recovery continues.  

So why am I doing this to myself? Because I’m raising money for the incredible homeless charity Sanctus. www.sanctus-home.com

Local to me in Chelmsford Sanctus provides daily meals, support, and hope for people who deserve far better than life has handed them. If these people can face their challenges every single day with courage, the least I can do is wobble through 26 miles of pain while holding a banana for “energy.  On my longer runs, I’ve imagined the finish line countless times. I’ve also imagined the medical tent, a large pizza, and never running again. But what keeps me going is knowing that every mile I endure helps raise funds for people experiencing homelessness—people who deserve safety, dignity, and a chance to rebuild their lives.

Here it comes. If you can, please donate. Please, give what you can (or even more). The more I raise the less able I am to back out of this ridiculous situation I've got myself into. 

Thank you for supporting me, cheering for me, and believing in me.

Let’s do this!