When I say I have cystic fibrosis, most people ask me what it is and what problems it causes me. At first, I used to find it strange that no-one knew because from the age of five I had become well versed in its various effects. I suppose I was also amazed because I had always been told how it was the most common genetically-inherited disease in Britain, a fact which is still true today, and as a consequence, or so my young mind assumed, everyone knew about it. Not so. There are currently 6,000 people in the country with the condition and out of every 25,000 people born in the country this year, one will have it. It primarily affects the lungs and pancreas, causing the former to produce too much mucus and the latter to not function correctly. Cystic fibrosis also leads to other problems such as diabetes and many patients need transplants to replace their lungs, liver or kidneys. Fortunately I am not as badly affected as some friends - in fact, when I told them I was running the London Marathon, many showed amazement because they cannot walk for five minutes without becoming breathless. They are constantly attached to oxygen machines or go into hospital three times a year for treatment. I am 'lucky' because all I need to do is take 25 tablets a day with food, use a nebuliser twice a day, take antibiotics and vitamin supplements in order that my body will function close to normal. I have only stayed in hospital for two weeks since I was 4, but do have check-ups every six months at my clinic in Bath. In fact, before running my first marathon, I am talking to physiotherapists, dieticians and specialists to ensure I do not push my body too far and that I continue to eat what my body needs while at the same time building strength and stamina. Since 1964, the Cystic Fibrosis Trust have been raising money and awareness in the hope that a cure for the condition can be found. In its 40th anniversary year, that goal is closer, with the defective gene having been identified last year. But more money is needed to help genetic specialists find the cure that will make such a difference to my life and that of 6,000 others. My goal of raising £10,000 will help towards that and it is why I am putting myself the hardship of running along dark country lanes in the depths of winter.