I always wanted to be a runner, I watched people running as I drove past in my car wanting and yearning to be there with them. I’ve dabbled for years but every personal trainer along the way said I’m too heavy to run and not to do it. I should’ve listened to my body more because when I became a runner in early 2018 it changed my world. I’m 4 stone lighter and it’s the best thing I ever did for my mental health. I reached 16 miles in November 2018 and it was on that day I entered for my first ever marathon. 

I’ve chosen to raise funds for Action Mental Health because one day at my stall in St George’s Market when I was packing up after the weekend I just burst into floods of tears., I didn’t realise how low I had got. A fellow trader is a volunteer with AMH and he gave me leaflets to read which started my journey to better awareness of my own mental health. 

I’ve found a hobby I love, one which I always knew I loved but never had the get up and go and incentive to stick to until I realised that it was so beneficial for my mental health. I’m so very lucky I found running and one more thing that helps me when I’m sad or stressed. Those miles stop my overthinking brain in its tracks as I pound the streets, beaches, trails or mountains focusing on breathing, getting one foot in front of the other, getting home in one piece.

Hopefully raising funds for AMH will help them to help others, even if it’s just as simple as being handed a leaflet or letting people know there’s someone else to talk to, someone who’s been through the same and come out the other side or learnt to manage their mind better or where to turn to for more help. 

Thanks for donating !!

Jeff xxx 

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