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This is my biggest challenge to date and after being injured during training, out for 3 weeks, then returning for just one week before getting Covid, the challenge is real, both mentally & physically!.. 

Jason & I will be running Brighton Marathon together on 10th April 2022. It will be challenging for us both in different ways… For me the mental battle will be as big as the physical one and the set backs in training have not helped that. I have always put a lot of pressure on myself with everything I do and that comes from being told that I was worthless and useless for many years.  I am a survivor of domestic abuse and now use my experiences to help others to speak out..I got up to the magic 20 miles in training but the thought of another 6.2 after that...well, I cannot even comprehend!! As always, I will dig deep and think about why I am doing it and more importantly where I have come from to be here, safe & free. Running helped to give me the mental strength to end years of abuse, I am hoping this inspires others and teaches my children many things but one of which is that they can achieve anything they want to if they put their mind to it and work hard. 

Jason has had to train himself to run very differently to accommodate my (slower) pace. (easier said than done)! Although he has already completed 2x marathons, this time he will be on his feet running for longer than ever before. Something we have had to try and work at together during our training runs when he has been defaulting to his natural pace! He’s always a huge support to me regardless of what he’s got going on. He is still nursing an injury himself, but still finds a mental strength that I admire and am in awe of. Anyone that saw him in the London Marathon will know what I mean! I am so grateful that he will be by my side during the marathon, even if it may not seem like it to him at the time!!!! ;-). 

Most know of my reasons for supporting Ben Smith & The 401 Foundation - but for those that don't or want to know more - just ask. 

Thank you for reading, if you cannot donate, please just pay it forward and be kind. Nobody knows what we are all dealing with inwardly and kindness really does help to change someone's headspace and potentially their current situation.

Thank you, Hazel x

#findyourhappy