Walking Back to Happiness- A 30 mile walk from Guildford to Teddington

On the 31st October 2018 I (Gracie) suffered a nervous breakdown. From the moment I was admitted to hospital to now as I continue my recovery under the Community Mental Health Team, I have been on the receiving end of incredible treatment that I strongly believe has contributed to keeping me alive. We wanted to do something to raise some money for a charity that makes a difference to thousands of people and whose work is invaluable to so many, including me.

As part of my recovery I have been walking every day. This has been one of the most effective, simple and cheap forms of therapy! So we thought, why not put those steps to good use and help others in their recovery too.

On Saturday 11th May 2019, we will both walk from the significant places where help was received in Farnham Road Hospital in Guildford, to the place where that moment of help was triggered, Catherine's house in Teddington.

At times the walk back to stronger mental health can feel lonely but friendship has been key. Right from day one we have journeyed together through this experience. That journey continues, as together we embark on this mammoth 30mile walk.

The healing process is slow but as well as a good network of friends, recovery is only possible because of having an assigned Care Co-ordinator, the provision of C.B.T and a Crisis Line that as been used in those frequent lower moments. Expert help and advice on hand 24hrs a day has been an absolute life saver. All the money we raise will help another individual access this same help.

MIND is sadly needed by so many but we hope that you can support us in this venture so that this charity can continue to provide high quality support to others.

Thank you for taking the time to read our story.

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