I have decided to run the Great North Run on September 12th this year to fundraise for Beat, the UK's leading charity supporting those affected by eating disorders.

Not only have I seen the impact of eating disorders first-hand in my personal life, I also currently work as a Senior Healthcare Support Worker on an adult eating disorders inpatient ward and see the impact of eating disorders day-to-day on both the people struggling with them, and their families. 

There continues to be a lack of awareness around eating disorders, which includes the public and healthcare professionals. This is something I am passionate about improving, as this lack of awareness and understanding of how truly devastating eating disorders can be not only leads to a lack of intervention, but also to further judgement and isolation of the sufferer. Eating disorders are not the sufferer's fault; they are mental illnesses, caused by a multitude of precipitating factors. 

Because eating disorders are mental illnesses, it is not always clear how much they affect individuals. What may not be appreciated is that eating disorders take up every single second, of every minute, of every day of sufferer's lives, taking over their entire lives. Sufferer's physical, social and emotional lives are hugely impacted, and eventually their entire sense of identity can be eroded as it is eclipsed by their eating disorder. 

To recover from an eating disorder is a long process, which involves intense support from loved ones and likely healthcare professionals. It is something that can take years to overcome, which seems acutely unfair. This time can be greatly reduced by a greater understanding, alongside the unconditional love and support, of those around the sufferer. 

Beat offers a Helpline to encourage and empower people to get help quickly, because the sooner someone starts treatment, the greater their chance of recovery. Beat also support family and friends, equipping them with essential skills and advice, so they can help their loved ones recover whilst also looking after their own mental health. Further, Beat campaign to increase knowledge among healthcare and other relevant professionals, and for better funding for high-quality treatment.

And so, I would love for you to consider donating to my fundraising efforts this year. My aim is to raise at least £350, and with that, the awareness that has been mentioned above. Effectively, your donations will save lives, and if you feel able to support me, I would be truly grateful.