On Sunday 3rd July, I’m heading up to Bolton to take part in the Ironman UK triathlon.

This starts with a 2.4 mile swim, followed by a 112 mile cycle and finishes with a 26.2 mile run. A challenge that terrifies me (!)

A lot of people have asked me, why would you put yourself through that? It’s a fair point and something I’ve asked myself a lot…

In August 2021, our wonderful Mum, Jo, sadly took her own life. She was the last person we thought would do this. This left our family searching for answers, information and comfort during a very dark time. In the weeks after my Mum’s death I felt incredibly lost without her; my Mum and I spent a lot of our time together cycling around London or swimming at our local lido. For me, this Ironman was never about charity fundraising; it was about having a reason to get outside and slowly build a routine. However, after many training days spent questioning why on earth I am doing this, whilst knowing the devastating effect that suicide has on the people left behind, I decided I would like to raise money for Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide. 

I recognise many people have never heard of this charity – many will never need their help and most cannot imagine that a suicide will ever affect them. I didn’t.

This charity supported me and my family last year, and helped us to see the light at the end of a very long tunnel. It offers a unique service that supports those suddenly left behind. From my own experience I know how vital it is that people get the right information and support, at the right time.

Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide help around 7000 people each year and continue to grow in response to significant unmet demand - so I’m proud to say I’m fundraising for them, in the hope that down the line they will help someone else in need.

If you can, I would be very grateful if you could spare some cash for a very worthy cause. 

Thank you for your support. Let’s hope the blood, sweat and tears are all worth it!

Kate

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