I thought 10k would be a breeze. 10 years ago I would have run it in an evenings run. Not now! Obsessed with running I was like Forrest Gump! However, I gave it up as I couldn't keep my weight  up and was becoming exhausted and ill. I used running to fuel my obsession of control. Like a form of anorexia it was unhealthy and all consuming for the same reasons. It was the only thing I could control in my life and the only way I could feel free. I abused my body with running to the point of exaustion. Addicted to the pain. I was not happy. I became seriously ill and started to collapse and my legs stopped working and my body hurt all the time. I was running on empty for years until I ended up in hospital. Some time later I met my husband and life got alot better and I stopped running. After meeting my husband and having my child I've not felt the need to abuse and punish my body with relentless exercise. I know I was ill but no one could help. It was my mental health killing my body. This is why mental health is so important. I want to do one last run for this charity who research and help in so many ways for all sorts mental health issues. Running for this charity will remind of the issues people face particularly people suffering eating disorders and similar issues and I promise it will be my last run. 

Stockport Homes Group's Charity of Choice for 2020-2021 is MQ: Transforming Mental Health.MQ is the leading mental health research charity dedicated to tackling mental health through research. Their vision is to create a world where mental illness is understood, effectively treated and ultimately prevented. With 1 in 4 people being affected by mental illness each year, it is a reality that everyone has had experience with, whether at home, work or within the community.Stockport Homes Group is a strong advocate for mental health and will be working with the charity, helping MQ find out more about mental health to improve the lives of everyone affected.Stockport Homes Group has a busy calendar of fundraising events planned to support the charity with everything from bake sales to bingo, well-being walks to 10k runs.