Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page. Mental health is something we all have. Although all of us may not have a diagnosable mental health illness, we all go through stages of having good and bad mental health and need some support.

There are high levels of deprivation, unemployment, poor living conditions and poor educational achievement in Tower Hamlets and Newham in East London. Consequently, there is an increased risk of both developing and also exacerbating existing mental health problems.

Working in primary and secondary care across Tower Hamlets in the NHS, I see first hand the effect poor mental health has on my patients. 

Mind in Tower Hamlets and Newham has a vision of a society where people with mental health and emotional needs are accepted and included without fear of stigma and discrimination. Mind are here to ensure that people have access to the right support at the right time. They offer a range of services including talking therapies, employment support and community projects.

Most of you who know me may know despite being a physiotherapist and putting my profession to shame (!) I am a terrible runner. If I'm not running after a football or tennis ball, I really struggle to do 5k without getting puffed! I have decided to push my limits and train for this half marathon in the hope it will spark fundraising for this cause which is really close to my heart. Incidentally running has been really good for clearing my head, and I encourage anyone struggling out there to consider regular exercise as an essential way of managing your physical and mental health!

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

Any donation, big or small, would be much appreciated. Thank you for your support!

Linda xx