Some of you may know that I took part in the Great North Run in 2015 - I'd never run a mile in my life and avoided PE at school but decided before I turned 40 I wanted to take part in one of the greatest half marathons in my home town!  And I did!  I set myself a goal, had a training plan and achieved it.  It is by far one of the greatest experiences of my life!  I ran on behalf of TAMBA (having had twins myself) and raised a significant amount for the charity.

Two weeks after completing the GNR, I tripped down some stairs and badly sprained my ankle.  Frustrated because I couldn't run, I knew I wanted to continue to exercise so took up Yoga.  That in itself has been quite a journey both physically and mentally, and whilst I enjoy the physical aspect of Yoga, it's the meditation aspect that I enjoy and benefit the most from.

I'm pleased to say that over the last few months I've started to run again - almost 3 years after I completed my first half marathon!  I'm managing approximately 10k but am hoping that, despite the injury, I'll be able to keep pushing myself to get back to my previous form.

So that brings me back to the Big Battlefield Bike Ride... I'm ready for a new challenge!  I rode a Hercules Compact as a teenager, I've only just recently bought a mountain bike as an adult, I'm by no means a confident rider.  But then 4 years ago I couldn't run - well for a bus maybe! 

In September 2018 I registered my interest in completing this challenge with Debenhams but unfortunately didn't get a place.  Imagine my surprise when I found out late January this year that I had secured a place after all!

My feelings of surprise and excitement soon turned into.... 350 miles... I've never cycled in traffic... I'm not a confident cyclist... I don't even have a road bike...!  But then I remembered... I couldn't run, but I ran a half marathon... and I remembered I can do anything I put my mind to!  It won't be easy but with my determination and your support, I know I can smash it!

Imagine your life changing overnight. Suddenly, the world you knew is not accessible. You must start from scratch, all over again.  This is happening right now.  Every day, seven people leave the Armed Forces with life changing injuries.  Many struggle, meaning they and their families need specialist help to aid recovery from wounds both visible and hidden.  Your donation allows Help for Heroes to continue providing vital support, now and in the future.

Thank you for supporting me, Help for Heroes and all those who need them.

Sophie

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