“Knowing you are running to make a difference to someone’s life is a feeling you never forget”

Ovarian Cancer Action supporter Amanda Leslau ran the Vitality 10k race for Ovarian Cancer Action for her Nana last year. She relives the day and encourages you to take part this year.

"Knowing you are running to make a difference to someone’s life, is a feeling you can never forget. Last year my father and I ran the Vitality 10k in Central London for Ovarian Cancer Action. My Nana, Anita has ovarian cancer for the fourth time. She is a fighter, a believer and an achiever.

Leading up to the race, I focused on both training and fundraising. Setting the alarm on a Saturday morning after a long week of work can be tough, but when you remind yourself of why you’re running and who you’re doing it for, the alarm is nothing.

Linking my JustGiving page to Facebook I saw friends, family, friends of friends, family friends and Facebook friends donating to support me and Ovarian Cancer Action.

The atmosphere at Vitality 10k was electric! Gymbox took me through an energetic warm up and I felt more than ready to power through. I would be lying if I said the run was easy. When I reached the 5k mark my legs felt tired and I could hear my breathing getting heavier. What kept me going? Nana.

Continuing on the course, I passed a young energetic drum band with huge smiling faces. There was nothing more motivating than the live music combined with the endless supporters cheering me on throughout the course (and the fact that I was running through Central London!). 10k may seem like a long way, but who's timing you?

At your own pace, time and ability – you can achieve anything. I urge you to get involved in this year’s Vitality 10k. Not only will it be a personal achievement but you’ll be helping people like my Nana – and there’s truly no better feeling.

If I can do it, so can you!"