After months of training, the day finally arrived when I did something that fewer than 1% of the world's population have done - I ran a marathon! (I can't actually believe I'm saying that.)
The London Marathon was a special day that I am never going to forget. The crowds all the way around the 26.2 miles course were amazing, cheering, singing, calling our names, high fiving and offering sweets and encouragement to keep us all going.
By the time I reached the Houses of Parliament I had already run a marathon distance but of course had to manage that all important sprint down The Mall to finish with a smile on my face, remembering my reason for running.
Thank you so much to everyone who has supported me in my fundraising which at the time of writing has raised £2,560 for East Cheshire Hospice. I know that this will be put to good use for the patients in their care.
The date of the London Marathon seemed a long way off when, back in February, Jill told us that she had been awarded a place. From then on she followed a rigorous training programme, then headed off to London on the Friday, to be ready for the big race on the Sunday.
Jill said that she was more nervous about catching the right tube for this task than the start of the race on Sunday morning!
As many of us know, as Jill runs, she is raising much needed funds for East Cheshire Hospice, the photograph shows her smiling under their sunflower logo after she had completed a previous run.
Jill will certainly have reason to smile after completing her first marathon. She feels proud not only of that but also of the support she has given to the Hospice. As the marathon was televised, some of us may have been able to spot her, wearing her Hospice top.
A big thank you to everyone who has donated to Jill Booth's Fundraising Page or given donations to her directly. You can still make a donation if you would like.