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I suffer from chronic depression and ceased work as a result of it in 2012 after battling for decades, both the symptoms and the stigma attached to it. A lack of purpose then added to my mental health issues along with a decline in my physical fitness. 

After years of friendly encouragement I attended my first 5k parkrun in 2019 and it took nearly 40 minutes, but I did it and I felt good about myself. Despite not being a 'natural runner' and finishing near the back, just as I always did at school nearly 50 years ago, I returned the following week. 

A short while later I saw an advert for a course called 'One Step At A Time' run by Heads On Charity with a mission to promote the benefits of exercise to improve mental health not just physical health. Very anxiously I made contact with and went along to join the very friendly  Worthing group of like minded people. The coaches are amazing in giving running advice and encouragement. Equally important is the social contact you get with the after session 'cuppa'.

Since my lowest point after stopping work I have lost nearly 6 stone in weight, run over 50 parkruns with my time improving to under 26 minutes, I can now run 10k and go out 4 or 5 times a week for a run. Most of that is due to Heads On. 

The Heads On courses cost money to organise and put on each week and I want to raise as much money as possible so other people suffering with mental health can get this help in the future. The task I have set myself between 20/12/20 and 17/02/21 will be very challenging but will be obtainable with your support. Any donation however large or small would be greatly appreciated. 

Kind regards 

 Andrew Wilkinson