4races4cities: Where it all began - Liz’s story.

At least one person in every five suffers from depression in the course of their lives.

A frightening fact.

I wouldn’t wish it on my worst enemy.

I know depression.

I watched my Mum, a woman of such grace, humility and compassion, drown in the murky depths of this brutal illness.

Twelve years ago, when she could take no more, she chose to end her life.

Sometimes, I still cannot believe that she is gone.

As a way of honouring my Mum’s memory, I have spent the last three years fundraising for a UK mental health charity called Mind. I guess it’s pretty obvious why this particular organisation is so close to my heart.

During past fundraising missions (a mixture of 5K’s, 10k’s and a half-marathon), I have managed to raise over £3,000. That money went towards essential funding - it’s not always easy to get help or therapy through the NHS (National Health Service), something my family can strongly attest, and the work Mind does to make that more accessible is just vital.

In 2012, I decided that I would attempt to raise a further £3,000 for Mind, by challenging myself to run 4 races in 4 European cities; Paris, London,

Berlin and Reykjavik:

Paris half marathon: 4 March, 2012

London marathon: 22 April, 2012

Reykjavik half marathon: 18 August, 2012

Berlin marathon: 30 September 2012

Joining forces - Priscilla and Tim's story.

Inspired by my efforts, two of my best friends, Priscilla and Tim, asked if they could join in and help with the fundraising, to which I promptly said YES, and so they signed themselves up for the Paris and Reykjavik half marathons and Berlin marathon (Priscilla), and the Kingston Wholefoods Breakfast Run and Royal Parks half marathon (Tim). Vicky, who works with my Dad, and was running the London marathon on a ballot place, also contacted me and offered to run for Mind.

My heart is bursting with gratitude.

So, please, put your hand in your pocket and sponsor the 4races4cities project, it doesn’t matter how much – every penny helps, seriously.

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