AS the final week of my marathon build up begins I found myself looking back over previous training blogs earlier, and I now know what my goal has to be next Sunday - Just get around and collect the medal!

In the previous few days I have had a rather painful shin splint injury diagnosed and been advised not to run until the big day in London next Sunday.

It was very frustrating to be told after all the hard work I have put into the training.

I had set new goals due to my training going so well but this setback means they probably are not achievable, as I would have needed to be at my peak to reach them anyway!

But after sitting down, crying, calling family and friends and overcoming the initial disappointment, I am now looking forward to Sunday's 26.2 mile run in the Big Smoke.

Because when I look at what I have achieved so far, I can reflect on a challenging but fantastic five months.

Not only have I prepared myself to run a marathon distance after six years of trying to get into the race, but I have run 15, 18 and 22 miles in relatively fast times, lost two stone in weight and got myself at my physical peak in fitness.

So now, while being disappointed with my injury, I am excited once again.

There are just seven days to go now, which means probably three nights sleep before the race, but I have arranged my travel, accommodation, post-race delights and everything else I require to get to the start line.

The hard work is behind me now and I have one run left to complete my goal.

In almost every blog entry that I have done that goal has been to get around London and collect my medal.

So I will line up next Sunday at the start at around 9.30am and the next 4-7 hours will be hours I will go and enjoy.

Yes, I might be in pain, and my injury could flare up 24 miles in or two miles in, but I have been working towards this day for too long to let an injury stop me enjoying it.

So off to London I go on Friday for the final preparation which will see me finally meet up with the Epilepsy Society, who have been ridiculously helpful over the last five months, receive my race number and make my way to the start.

And after that, well who knows, but one way or another, I will cross the finish line and leave The Mall with my medal next Sunday afternoon with another tick off my lifetime to do list.

Positive, Mental, Attitude - a strong mind can help you through the toughest of challenges - and this will get me through the next week!

And lastly, I just want to thank everyone for their support in getting me to this stage!