Why run 2012 miles?

As many of you know I have been doing a little bit of running this year. Those of you who have been following the blog (http://belmontroadrunner.blogspot.com) or follow me on twitter (@mgossage) will know what I've been up to as I have hauled by tired, lazy and on occasion sickly self around the streets of Bristol, often early in the morning or late at night, to keep up with my commitment to run every day through 2012 with the aim of reaching 2012 miles before the year is out...all in the name of charity, or multiple charities in this case!

Well, as the weekend approaches I am preparing to take on the Edinburgh Marathon, the first time I have run that distance for five years, and without a days rest from running in the 148 days leading to it.

So this is just a quick note to explain why I'm doing what I'm doing.

I've chosen to run for the five charities I regularly support because it was just too difficult to choose between such worthy causes. The Grand Appeal provide life saving beds for premature babies, the most vulnerable people on the planet, whilst Merlin ensure that after the emergency relief teams leave war torn or disaster ridden places, the medical infrastructure can be rebuilt so that communities can survive. I've had friends touched by Cancer who have praised the work of the Macmillan nurses, always on hand to comfort and advise through the most traumatic of times and others who have benefited from the campaigning and research provided by the British Heart Foundation. And finally Shelter, who again I am supporting through my practice and offering consultation to home owners in return for donations that help fund the fight against rouge landlords, lobby for affordable housing and help to educate on the importance of the a good place to live. How could I choose?

I know that these are tough times, but all and any donations are greatly appreciated...and if you sponsor me and manage to predict my race time, you are in with a chance to win a prize donated by specialist running store Up & Running Bristol

Running can be tough, but every time I get a hour to do what I want to do...even if sometimes I don't want to do it...I am thankful that I have a home, I have my health and I have the luxury of time to do it.

Just a selection of the excellent crowd from the Up & Running Shop runs

The wonderful 'mile'ers' up at Newcastle station after the OneShow1000 relay

And when I can do it surrounded by friends...well that's about as good as it gets!