I was lucky enough to meet Guide Dog owner Theresa at a recent networking event that I attended. Theresa was there to publicise the work of Guide Dogs, particularly her work with large corporate firms, but she spoke openly about her relationship with her current Guide Dog 'Rikki' whose been with her now over 5 and a half years. Theresa summed up 'Rikki' in two short words - 'a miracle' - making her indpenedent and confident to live her life to the full. Theresa told me all about how Rikki has no fear of guiding Theresa around London Underground stations, hopping on and off all sorts of public transport even in rush hour and how Rikki loves new places and new environments - characteristics that match very well with Theres'a job which takes her all over the South of England. 

As my friends, family and colleagues will know, Guide Dogs has for some time been a cause I have felt very passionately about, since I committed to raise £5,000 for Guide Dogs back in late 2011. I've been really lucky to have received support from many people be it through donations of unwanted clothing, books, bric a brac, attendance at quizs or participation in competitions. 

A huge thanks needs to go particularly to my JCI friends, notably Steve Wells who has helped with organisation of events and Lynda Harwood who herself raised £1,000 by running the Tough Mudder race earlier this year. 

We now stand at approiamately £3,200 raised and banked for Guide Dogs. 

In just nine days time I'll be stepping out on my latest quest to raise further funds, taking us, hopefully, one huge leap forward towards the £5,000 target. A week this Wednesday, I shall be taking part in the first 10k race of the Yateley Road Race Series - with the 2nd and 3rd races being on the first Wednesday of July and August. Anybody who knows me will know that sports is not my first love and certainly not something that comes naturally to me, and possibly never will! 

I'd like to ask everyone to help JCI get that little bit closer to the £5,000 target by donating what you can towards sponsoring me to complete these three 10k runs. Every last penny and pound count. 

Donations and sponsorship can be made using the fi=ollowing link www.justgiving.com/Clare-Franklin

Thanks for all your support!