I’ve thought long and hard about asking for sponsorship for this run, but I’ve decided to share a little bit about why running is so important to me and the difference your support can make  

As most of you know, running has become a massively important part of my life. 

However most of you won’t know that the reason for this has been to help me to fight, and win my battle with depression. 

Two years ago we took the huge decision to relocate across the Pennines to Lytham St Annes, leaving behind family, friends and a job which I loved and was passionate about, supporting the well being of students in secondary school. We went through three house moves in one year, two teenage daughters settling to new schools and colleges and a whole new life in a new place. 

Sadly for me, it was very tough and I started with the aim of running one mile around Fairhaven Lake, to get me out of the house and into the fresh air. Gradually the distances built and running regularly became something to look forward to. I put on my big girl pants one day and joined the Park View 4U Friendly Runners group which was the best thing I could have done. Being surrounded by such caring, lovely people once a week became a lifeline for me. 

However towards the end of last year, I was beginning to find that the running was not bringing me the joy it once had and I slowly realised that I was losing interest in the majority of things. There were days when I could not leave the house and I felt myself slipping into a dark place. I was ashamed and embarrassed and hadn’t realised this had been building for a long time. Just before Christmas, I was finally brave enough to make a doctors appointment and stood there in tears when they said the first one would be mid January. 

When the time came, I really didn’t want to go, but I did and the most wonderful doctor didn’t judge me, he listened carefully and gave me his undivided attention and time. He confirmed what I knew, that I had depression and explained that I would need a little bit of help to get going again. 

So here I am, five moths later, taking daily anti-depressants and having just completed a difficult, challenging yet rewarding course of counselling and CBT to recognise that I am on the road to recovery once more and give me the skills to cope with the ups and downs in life.

My love of running has returned with my amazing friends from the running club who have supported me every step of the way.

Mental health is still something uncomfortable for most of us, but Mind are going a long way to break down preconceived ideas and make it more acceptable to talk about our hidden illnesses. 

Thank you for taking the time to read this and for supporting me on my running and mental health journey. 

Nicola xx ❤️🏃‍♀️

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.