I thought long and hard about whether to take on this challenge. I am very lucky, I have good physical and mental health at the moment, people who know me know that I'm fit and active. I've decided with this challenge not to be just active every day but to run every day, for a minimum of a mile, each day in January. This will be in addition to any other activity that I do. 

Why? Everyone has reasons for taking on challenges. Many years ago, in separate incidences, two of my best friends ended their lives by committing suicide. They were young, vibrant, lively people full of ideas and enthusiasm that I loved, people that I spent a lot of time with, people that I went running with regularly, people who I wish were still here to run with.... 

Mental health issues affect everyone and since the loss of my two friends there have been many other people that I've known who have been affected whether it be with anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, paranoia or suicidal thoughts. There has never been a greater need for people to be able to be supported, to be able to talk and to receive appropriate care during their mental health battles. 

So, I'm running each day for my two friends who I'd love to still be able to run with and for all my friends and any strangers who are facing battles, whether it be day by day or hour by hour. Any support you can give would be very much appreciated, thank you. xx