After almost a decade of silently struggling with gender identity, my brother came out in June 2020 and revealed that they wanted to transition to female. Although a huge shock, my family and I inevitably knew that this would save my brother’s life. We have welcomed this transition with open arms, encouragement and support. This is a scary, life-changing journey and in order for a successful transition, trans people need as much support as possible. That is why I am raising money for Gendered Intelligence UK by doing the Leeds Half Marathon on September 5th 2021.

I am reluctant to admit that previously my family and I had been unaware of the issues surrounding gender identity. However, this announcement gave us the wake-up call we desperately needed.

The Trevor Project found that 60% of trans and non-binary youth have self-harmed in the past 12 months. Even more disturbingly, The National Transgender Discrimination Survey revealed that 41% of transgender people have attempted suicide in their lifetime. The Trans Mental Health Study found that 88% and 75% suffered from depression and anxiety respectively, compared to just 20% in the general population.

These shocking statistics are a result of the stigma surrounding the community; inevitably resulting in feelings of social isolation, helplessness and withdrawal. In a world where few people understand, charities are essential in supporting people transitioning.

This is why it is extremely important to raise money for Gendered Intelligence UK. This is a multi-faceted charity and the money raised by my half marathon will help to inform government policy on trans rights, improve research into the community, provide specialist training for therapists, deliver workshops in schools/universities, fund youth groups, summer camps and so forth.

Not only am I running this marathon to fundraise, but I want to raise positive awareness for the trans community. Having a sibling who is trans is something I am extremely proud of. In the face of adversity, the journey they are/will face is not easy. For some reason, this is a taboo subject. However, by sharing this story, I want people to open their minds and realise that this happens to normal people and normal families.

Thank you for reading. I greatly appreciate anyone who can donate, or spare some time to share my page :)

All money will be donated directly to Gendered Intelligence following completion of my half marathon.