I took up jogging a little over two years ago amid a particularly dark period of low mood. I had scarcely exercised for almost 12 years but recognised that something - anything - needed to change if I was going to survive it. I'm not sure if it was the endorphins or the simple satisfaction of committing to a personal project but jogging helped. It didn't fix everything, and I didn't get better immediately, but I now see this as an important turning point in my life.

It is therefore only fitting that I dedicate my first ever attempt at an Ultra Marathon to raising funds for the local mental health charity, Havant & East Hants Mind (HEH Mind).

HEH Mind work to promote good mental health within Havant and East Hampshire. They support recovery and empower people with mental health problems to lead full lives as part of their local communities.

Your donations will help HEH Mind to continue to run and resource vital services, including:

• Wellbeing services for adults, families and children
• Advocacy
• Training and workplace wellbeing support

For example:

• £25 could pay for a venue where people experiencing isolation and loneliness people can meet in a safe and inclusive environment.
• £75 could pay for their Childrens' Service to deliver an educational talk or assembly in school, helping to break the stigma of mental health for young people.
• £150 could pay for six one-to-one sessions for an adult or child, helping them to manage their mental health or reduce self harm.
• £750 could pay for ten weeks of support for a child at risk of abuse.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the HEH Mind. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.