I signed up to do the Virtual London Marathon to raise money for the Royal National Institute of Blind People, one of the UK’s leading sight loss charities.  They offer practical and emotional help and support for blind and partially sighted people. 

Training is a journey of self discovery.  For me running is an opportunity to be in the moment, be aware of my body, my movement, my breathing and to feel free and autonomous. 

I have experienced mental health issues, including  anxiety & depression since I was 16 and now I’m 33. At the route of these issues was a lack of sense of self worth and an inability to acknowledge & validate my emotions. Now I am secure in my belief that I’m worthy of being happy and healthy. I love moving my body with running, cycling, swimming & yoga and it’s running especially that gives me that all important headspace for introspection and reflection. We all need thinking time and to value our mental & physical health, VALUE LIFE. 

I’m grateful for the opportunity to do something I enjoy and raise money for charity.  One of the founding aims of the London Marathon was “to have fun & provide some happiness & a sense of achievement in a troubled world”. This has never been more true! Value life. Value those around us, value the world around us. Thanks to all who contributed, all the runners and the all people who donated money.