Story
It's time for the big one!
On Sunday 12th April 2026, I will be running the Brighton Marathon to raise further funds for my mental health support group, OCD SUPPORT - Rugby.
As some of you will remember, I have already ran a 5K, 10K, Half Marathon and now it's time to complete the set.
In 2021 and after years of struggling myself, I setup an informal support group to help other sufferers of the mental health condition Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. OCD SUPPORT - Rugby provides a safe, non-judgmental space to connect with others who share similar lived experiences. Sadly, mental health is at an all-time high and we are now in a position where local doctors, counsellors and other support services are referring people to us. We are not a professional service but I have witnessed firsthand the profound effect informal support groups can have in the acceptance and management of people's mental health conditions and we need them now more than ever.
OCD is ranked by the World Health Organisation in the top 10 of the most disabling illnesses by lost income and deceased quality of life.
Apart from a grant awarded to us by Warwickshire County Council in January 2023, we solely rely on donations to operate.
In September this year, we will be celebrating our 5 year anniversary so it felt like the right time to take on a big challenge and raise as much money as possible. Please note: All donations will be held by the Benn Partnership Centre.
My 12 week training plan starts tomorrow (19/01/26) and if you want to follow my journey, I will be regularly posting on this page.
I am grateful for any donation received, big or small.
Thank you in advance, Sophie x
"I have been coming to the group for a year now and it has really helped me see that there is light amongst the darkness with OCD. It puts me at ease knowing there is a safe place when times are tough, and that there is hope."
"I have been attending the OCD group in Rugby for just over 15 months after seeing a leaflet on a notice board. The group was very welcoming and it is so useful to have people around you who understand how you feel with no fear of judgement but instead gaining reassurance, recommendations and a listening ears."
