I had resolved about five months ago to attempt to run the 21.0975km half-marathon as part of the Blackmores Sydney Running Festival, in an attempt to raise funds to go towards Parkinson’s research, thinking I might be able to raise $1000 at best.

I am thrilled to say that I have raised more than $3000 in total, thanks in large part to the generosity of the patrons of Arrows Newsagency.

Shake It Up Australia is a not-for-profit organisation established in 2011. In partnership with The Michael J. Fox Foundation (MJFF), it promotes and funds Parkinson’s disease research in Australia aimed at better treatments and, ultimately, a cure.

I’m also very pleased to report that I not only successfully completed the half-marathon, but did so under my goal time and with no stops.

I had been sick with a stomach bug in the days leading up to the race and had very limited food intake to prepare, but was still able to come in at two hours, 18 minutes, 27 seconds.

Thanks again to everyone who donated. The generosity and support means so much and really kept me going for the 5am training runs when all I wanted to do was stay in bed!