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On the 14th of June I will be running the Potteries half marathon in my home town of Stoke on Trent in memory of my Mother Silvia and my Uncle Lee. 

I was 2 years old when I lost my Mother to suicide, she was 18. Before she died she was an accomplished singer performing with my aunty all over Stoke and writing their own songs. One of their songs entitled 'Marathon Man' was written and recorded for the Potteries marathon and played on BBC Radio Stoke every year until the marathon was changed to a half marathon.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bSERelDmj4g

 In 2013, my Uncle on my Father's side took his own life, he was in his forties. His death bought about a lot of old familiar feelings inside of me including regret, guilt, confusion, shame and searching for answers that I'd never find.

This will be my second year running this race. It is a great physical, mental and emotional challenge that will hopefully raise money to help others to deal with the same feelings that I have experienced throughout my life. Last year was my very first marathon and the very first time I had ever been so publicly open about my past and experience with suicide and the affect it has had on my life. I completed last year's race in 2 hours 18 minutes and hoping to SMASH my personal record this year- I am aiming for 2 hours. The Potters Arf Marathon is one of the hardest races in the country with 60% of the race being uphill (OMFG) and the last kilometre is appropriately named 'Heartbreak Hill' as it's so bloody steep. Who needs their knees in later life? #notme 

I will be raising money for SOBS- Survivors of Bereavement by suicide. There is help and support for those out there affected by suicide including support groups, counselling and helplines. 1 in 6 of us will experience suicidal thoughts throughout our lifetime, and getting help for any type of mental health issue should be encouraged. I would not be who I am today without the help and support that counselling has given me. 

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