Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

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 charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

On 4th Oct 2020, my 51st Birthday, Sandra & we will predominantly run & then walk/jog ('jeff') the Virgin Virtual London Marathon. It is the 40th one and due to Covid 19 and being virtual, it is different this year 45,000 runners in 109 country's with 24hrs to complete, however you wish - be it run, jog, walk or crawl to be all inclusive. It carries the hashtag #The40thRace & #myracemyway.  

https://www.virginmoneylondonmarathon.com/your-way/home.html

Our route is mainly on trail & woods in the Rotherham & Barnsley area, incorporating the Victorian Follies of the Wentworth Woodhouse Estate. I've yomped long distance in the past, but never ran a marathon. Sandra ran the Leeds half (many moons ago). It's a real challenge for us both and we only signed up in August, however lockdown & Covid saw us both out running again.

We've managed 2 long training runs since August of 13.2 & 16.5 miles, along with regular runs of 3-10 miles. Now is the time to commmit to raising a few sheckles for charity. Covid has affected many people's mental health and the situation will unfortunately get worse over the winter months. Mind can provide support & assistance to many of these people and at this difficult time require vital funds. 

Sandra's Mum, Pat, struggled with Mental Illness for many years and unfortunately after 12+ months bedridden and unable to cope with life she passed away late last year. Mind supported her in her earlier years and without that Pat may not have lived independently in her later life without being institutionalised.  

Mental illness affects 1 in 4 people in various forms. After leaving the Army & struggling to adapt to life, no sleep for months & stress brought on a serious Breakdown, which left me in hospital for 2 months. Since then I've had a few minor 'episodes' however I have learnt over the years to recognise the triggers and hopefully put measures in place before serious illness. I also battle with the black dog & anxiety and often struggle with everyday situations, which others often don't understand, as they see me as a confident person (Mental Illness does not discriminate).

 Hillwalking & recently running have helped stabilise my daily battle (together with minor support & low dose meds) I often read Minds websites for advice especially if I feel I am struggling. Who knows I, my family, friends, or you may need their services in the future. 

So help us, help them. We are doing the hard stuff & completing a Marathon (on my 51st birthday) so dig deep and spare a few £s, instead of buying me a drink ... Which in these Covid days is impossible !

Thank you.