Hi my name is Chris, and this year I'll be running the Brighton Half Marathon to raise money for the mental health charity, Mind.

Mind do incredible work to provide support and access to services for people struggling with their mental health - whether they're struggling with stress, burnout, anxiety, depression or suicidal ideation. Mind are there for people in need.

As a medical student I've had placements across various disciplines and wards, and have met so many people struggling with their own mental health, whether that be eating disorders or people in crisis because a major life event or medical condition has changed how they live their lives.  Mind are also fighting hard to lobby the government and to raise public awareness to increase access to mental health support. They've built local networks that allow for peer to peer support groups, and funded interventions for over 400,000 people last year alone.

I am incredibly lucky to have had my close friends there for me and supported me when I have gone through difficult times in life. During the race I'll be thinking of friends and family members that have struggled with their mental health and been through hardship, knowing that charities like Mind do so much to try to help people going through this.

If you can spare any donation towards Mind, it would be incredibly appreciated!

During the race I'll also be thinking of my friend Lloyd, who we sadly lost last year. We both played rugby together throughout our degrees at Manchester for uni halls and for Old Bedians rugby club. He was a fantastic bloke who always made sure that everyone got involved and never felt left out, and brought so much joy to so many. His partner Lizzie has set up a JustGiving page in his memory, and if you would also consider donating any amount, it would be incredibly appreciated: 

https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/e-wilkins?utm_source=copyLink&utm_medium=fundraising&utm_content=e-wilkins&utm_campaign=pfp-share&utm_term=1e5e66e733504b028c7b9950b39c6a71